Minister impressed with Canadian Adventure Tourism Industry Congress

Tourism, Culture and Recreation Minister Paul Shelley announced today that he was very impressed with the third annual Canadian Adventure Tourism Industry Congress which was held over the weekend in Gros Morne National Park.

"I was pleased to attend this conference as one of my first since being sworn in as Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation," said Minister Shelley. "I see adventure tourism as one of the most important areas of our tourism industry with enormous potential. This is a dynamic sector of the industry which has many interests for everyone. It includes canoeing, kayaking, hiking, trekking, rafting, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, bicycle touring and all points in between."

Approximately 150 people from all over Canada, the United States as well as Ireland and New Zealand attended the congress which was held outside British Columbia for the first time. Sessions focused on marketing and sustainability as well as nature appreciation and interpretation. Many tourists come to Newfoundland and Labrador to enjoy our natural history such as birding, botany, geology in combination with our cultural history and people.

"I was surprised by how much we have in common with such places as Ireland and New Zealand," said Minister Shelley. "We all share a vibrant culture and natural heritage, magnificent wildlife, pristine environment and warm hospitality. I was especially proud at how well Rocky Harbour, Norris Point and Woody Point in Gros Morne National Park hosted this national, world-class conference. This area of our beautiful province is the heart of adventure tourism and they proved that small communities in our province can successfully host this kind of conference."

Media contact: Vanessa Colman-Sadd, Communications, (709) 729-0857

2003 11 18                                         2:15 p.m.