NLIS 52
March 27, 2003
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

 

Province�s tourism marketing budget maintained at $6 million

The Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation�s tourism marketing budget will be maintained at $6 million for 2003-04.

"Tourism has grown steadily over the last number of years, with non-resident visits increasing an estimated 14 per cent and expenditures increasing about 25 per cent since 1998," said Minister Julie Bettney. "Resident and non-resident expenditures now exceed $620 million, approximately two per cent of the province�s GDP. It is important that we continue to build on this momentum and address opportunities and challenges of the next three to five years in the tourism industry."

In December 2002, government released the results of the provincial tourism marketing strategy review. The report concluded that the province has made significant progress in identifying and targeting markets, most notably the Maritimes and Ontario, and these markets should remain the central focus. It also emphasized the importance of activity markets such as hunting and fishing, adventure markets, and the need for a stronger Internet presence in marketing the province as a whole.

"Tourists are attracted to our province because of our unique culture and heritage, our pristine environment and our people. These are assets which have contributed to a steady growth in visitation," said the minister. "This government is focusing on an enhanced tourism marketing strategy to set priorities for 2003 and beyond. This funding will continue to enhance our core tourism marketing campaign, as we work together with industry to strengthen our tourism product."

The year 2002 was another growth year in terms of tourism performance, with non-resident visitors estimated at 436,300. This maintains the trend of the last several years of tourism growth in the province. Recent market data in a number of key areas suggest another good year for tourism in 2003.

Media contact: Melony O�Neill, Communications, (709) 729-0928.

2003 03 27                                       4:30 p.m.


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