Ottawa, February 14, 2013—The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism), today met with representatives from key federal departments, the provinces and territories, and the tourism industry to advance the work of Canada's Federal Tourism Strategy.
"Tourism is a strong driver of Canada's economy, and our government is committed to establishing the right conditions for the industry to succeed," said Minister of State Bernier. "Today's forum allowed for a common understanding of issues and opportunities for growth in support of an internationally competitive tourism sector."
Launched in October 2011, the Federal Tourism Strategy (FTS) includes a priority to encourage product development and investments in Canadian tourism assets and products. Today's stakeholder-partner forum, an FTS commitment under this priority, was a constructive exchange of information about best practices on strategically important destinations and attractions.
"Knowledge of the key characteristics of destinations and attractions will better position the sector for growth," added the Minister of State. "Since the launch of Canada's Federal Tourism Strategy, we have worked at enhancing our government's role as an effective partner with industry and other levels of government. We are delivering on our commitments and have reached important milestones."
Canadian tourism is currently undergoing healthy growth, with revenues increasing for 13 consecutive quarters. During the first three quarters of 2012, revenues increased by $2.9 billion, reaching $64.4 billion, and the number of tourism jobs averaged more than 618,700.
Visit the Supporting Tourism website for more information on Canada's Federal Tourism Strategy and other tourism initiatives.
For further information (media only), please contact:
Scott French
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Maxime Bernier
Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism)
613-943-6183
Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502
