November 3, 1999
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

Plans to determine any short-term accommodation issues under way

Charles Furey, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today announced that Strategic Concepts has been awarded a contract valued at $25,200 to complete a comprehensive assessment of the transportation and capacity issues relating to Vikings! 1000 Years celebrations next year. The assessment will determine whether there are any short-term issues which need to be addressed to ensure successful celebrations.

"I expect there will be some pressure points on specific regions in the province next year as a result of key events being planned but these issues will be short in nature. In fact, it is quite normal for questions regarding accommodations and transportation to arise whenever events of this magnitude are planned, no matter the location," says Mr. Furey. "We are nearing the completion of what appears to be a record breaking year for the tourism industry in the province, and even with all the tourists visiting Newfoundland and Labrador we still had vacancies. I expect the same will occur next year."

Strategic Concepts is a Newfoundland-based management consulting firm. The study will concentrate on identifying possible pressure areas and providing a range of solutions. The study will include an overview of the visitation to the province, a review of the existing accommodations base line and occupancy data, and transportation issues.

Furey added: "I am looking at the province-wide celebrations being planned for next year with a realistic perspective. There will be challenges. We are working to identify early any short-term capacity issues and determine solutions to address these issues now. I expect to receive Strategic Concepts study in December at which time I will review the recommendations and begin immediately to work with industry and community councils to put forth solutions to ensure all the visitors to the province next year have a fantastic experience."

Media contact: Tara Laing, Communications, (709) 729-0928.

1999 11 03 4:25 p.m.