Newfoundland and Labrador edges closer to becoming global geotourism destination

News release

Federal funding to support marketing series featuring NL’s unique geology, culture and communities

May 27, 2021 · Clarenville, Newfoundland and Labrador · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Atlantic Canada’s spectacular landscapes, delicious food and rich cultural experiences attracted millions of visitors every year. With public health and travel restrictions still in place, the tourism sector is facing a long and challenging road to recovery. That is why the Government of Canada is investing in organizations like Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland Destination Management Organization Inc. (Legendary Coasts) – a marketing and industry engagement non-profit – to help the Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) tourism industry thrive, grow and come back strong.

Federal support for tourism in Newfoundland and Labrador

To celebrate Tourism Week, Churence Rogers, Member of Parliament for Bonavista—Burin—Trinity, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, along with the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced a total contribution of $670,146 to Legendary Coasts.

This investment will help the organization launch marketing activities to promote Newfoundland and Labrador as a global geotourism destination. The campaign will spotlight the province’s spectacular geological heritage, combined with unique cultural experiences, to attract more visitors to the region, once it is safe to travel again.

Today’s announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to help tourism businesses and organizations reach new markets and prepare for a strong recovery.

Quotes

“Atlantic Canadians have long been proud to welcome tourists from across Canada and all over the world to enjoy the region’s incredible vistas, warm hospitality and rich cultures. During Tourism Week, and beyond, it is our priority to ensure that the tourism sector is well-positioned to deliver a vibrant, world-class visitor experience when it is safe to travel again.”

-   The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA


“Newfoundland and Labrador is a top-of-mind destination for many explorers who want to experience unique adventures. The collaborative work by Legendary Coasts and partners will promote the special geological attractions of the Eastern Region. This will not only celebrate our spectacular geology but also help drive visitation and spending, benefitting tourism operators throughout the region.”

-  The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology


“Newfoundland and Labrador’s outstanding geological features, combined with our rich and diverse cultural landscape, offer a visitor experience like no other. This support for Legendary Coasts will help showcase our breath-taking coastlines and national parks to a global audience, drawing more visitors to our shores when it is safe to do so.”

- Churence Rogers, Member of Parliament for Bonavista—Burin—Trinity


“With the support from both federal and provincial governments, we are taking advantage of the opportunity to create a stunning series highlighting some of our province’s amazing features—geology, culture and communities. As the tourism sector recovers, Newfoundland and Labrador will be ready and calling on visitors far and wide to experience our rich geotourism offerings.”

-Chris Sheppard, Executive Director of Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland Destination Management Organization Inc.

Quick facts

  • The Government of Canada, through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF), is providing a non-repayable contribution of $507,701 while the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is contributing $162,445 towards this project.

  • Working in partnership with Atlantic communities and stakeholders, ICF builds on the strengths of communities and provides the tools needed to identify opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

  • The Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland Destination Management Organization Inc. is a non-profit dedicated to marketing, experience development and industry engagement in the Eastern region of Newfoundland and Labrador.

  • Tourism Week in Canada is May 23-30, 2021.

Associated links

Contacts

Catherine Mounier-Desrochers

Press Secretary

Office of the Minister of Economic

Development and Official Languages

Catherine.Mounier-Desrochers@canada.ca


Paul McGrath

Director of Communications

ACOA NL

709-689-5731

paul.mcgrath@acoa-apeca.gc.ca


Chris Sheppard

Executive Director

Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland Destination Management Organization Inc.

709-427-8387

chris.sheppard@legendarycoasts.com

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