July 20, 1999
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

Newfoundland and Labrador leads the country in growth of demand for hotel occupation

Charles Furey, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, is pleased with the figures released recently from the Canadian Tourism Research Institute, regarding hotel occupancy rates. Early 1999 indicators from the Canadian Lodging Outlook indicate that demand for hotel occupancy in Newfoundland and Labrador was up 13.1 per cent over the same period last year, higher than any other place in Canada.

Overall, the demand for hotel occupation was up 1.3 per cent in Canada, with Newfoundland and Labrador leading the way with the largest increase among provinces.

"Once again, Newfoundland and Labrador is leading the way in this country. While some provinces have seen a decline in their hotel occupancy rates, this province boasts the highest level of increase over last year. I am not at all surprised by this report, as it corresponds with the significant increases we have experienced in our tourism numbers," said Furey. "With special events like the Canada Winter Games and the East Coast Music Awards, 1999 got off to a great start and has continued at a record pace."

Increases in occupancy levels were also seen in Quebec, British Columbia and Nova Scotia, while decreases were experienced in Ontario, Manitoba, New Brunswick and Alberta. The study was completed based on information from the period of January to March 1999.

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

1999 07 20         2:40 p.m.