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

Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to recognize May 29 to June 4 as Tourism Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Tourism Week is an opportunity to celebrate the provincial tourism industry and local businesses, operators and employees. They have put Newfoundland and Labrador on the map as a travel destination of choice and are the very reason why tourism is such a strong economic pillar in our province.

Year after year, they create exceptional tourism experiences, showcase the uniqueness and beauty of our communities, and share our warmth and hospitality with visitors from all over the world. Experiences that celebrate the arts, culture, heritage, nature and culinary – the authentic experiences that visitors want.

Industry outlook for the remainder of 2022 and into 2023 is promising. Operators are reporting that bookings are very strong from June to September and that the fall season is shaping up to be busy. Some operators are booked entirely. Marine Atlantic bookings are exceeding 2019 levels.

As part of Come Home 2022, there will be lots to do and see this year. Special events are being planned in over 170 communities. Over the last two years, we have invested over $19 million dollars directly into tourism operations. To help build capacity and experiences, we have also invested close to $17 million in cultural and community organizations to upgrade infrastructure and add to or enhance their programming.

Speaker, our government will continue to stand with and support our operators in creating and enhancing their experiences, and encouraging visitors to ‘come home.’ Please join me in thanking all those involved in the tourism industry for showcasing the wonders of Newfoundland and Labrador.