Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
May 31, 2016

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Christopher Mitchelmore, Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development:

Province Celebrates Tourism Awareness Week

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in this House today to recognize Tourism Awareness Week in our province from May 29 to June 4, 2016.

Mr. Speaker, our tourism industry generates a billion dollars in visitor spending each year and is an important part of our government's plan to diversify and grow the economy throughout the province. There are approximately 2,500 businesses in the province's tourism sector, of which 82 per cent are small businesses, creating an estimated 18,000 jobs.

As we see the continued growth of our tourism industry, we see new opportunities for businesses throughout the province. We are working with tourism business, craft producers and retailers, and arts and heritage organizations to ensure our products and experiences meet the demands and expectations of visitors to our province.

Newfoundland and Labrador has become a leading tourism destination, offering authentic experiences to showcase our heritage, pristine natural environment and our people. We understand the importance of investing in tourism marketing as a way to further grow the industry and are investing $13 million in tourism marketing this year.

Mr. Speaker, throughout the week I will be highlighting some of the ways our government is supporting the tourism and cultural industries and furthering growth. I invite all members to join me in celebrating the success of our tourism industry and its continued potential in our province. Thank you.

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2016 05 31                              1:50 p.m.