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Tourism, Culture and Recreation
May 12, 2010

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Terry French, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation:

Economic Impact of JUNOs Felt in Hotel Industry

I rise today to advise this Honourable House that we have received some terrific news with respect to the economic impact of the JUNO Awards held in St. John's last month — news which adds to our expectation that 2010 will be a very good year for tourism in this province.

Although a full economic impact assessment of the JUNOs is ongoing, statistics from the major hotels in the capital city indicate room nights sold were up 18 per cent over last April and revenue was up by 26 per cent to almost $5 million.

The Provincial Government invested more than $1 million into the JUNOs and we anticipate a short-term return on investment of about $10 million in economic activity generated. The national and international exposure we received, including the opportunity to showcase 260 local artists, will also bring long-term benefits to the province — particularly in terms of highlighting Newfoundland and Labrador's vibrant cultural scene.

But the good news for the tourism industry is not limited to St. John's. To the end of March 2010, non-resident visitation throughout this province is up almost eight per cent over the same period last year — which, by the way, was also a very good year.

This is very encouraging especially since the impact of the JUNOs is not yet reflected in that number. In addition, as you know, we are also celebrating a major milestone this year — the 400th anniversary of Cupids, the first English colony established in Canada. Those celebrations culminate in a week of activities being held from August 17-22, and we anticipate many visitors from Canada and around the world will be here to help us mark that occasion.

In 2009, in partnership with the tourism industry, we launched Uncommon Potential — a Vision for Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism. We are already seeing the positive effects of action we have taken through this strategy and I have no doubt there will be more.

I am very excited about the 2010 tourism season, the growth we have experienced over the past several years, and the potential for future growth, and I invite my colleagues to encourage their friends and families outside the province to come visit us this year and experience all we have to offer.

2010 05 12                                                    2:25 p.m.


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