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

Speaker, this is National Tourism Week, which is an opportunity for us to celebrate Newfoundland and Labrador’s tourism operators and the incredible benefits that the tourism industry brings to our communities, and province.

It is fitting that this year’s theme is ‘Canada: Powered by Tourism.’ Tourism is a significant economic driver in our communities – employing thousands of residents and creating economic spin-off opportunities.

Tourism operators are helping to tell our story to visitors from all over the world.  They help build and enhance experiences and support cultural and recreational assets in their communities, which also improve the quality of life for residents.

I would like to thank Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador and our destination management organizations for their incredible work to support tourism efforts throughout the province.

Their collective work has resulted in an unmatched pride of place, and a celebration of what Newfoundland and Labrador is, and who we are as people.

In December, we joined the industry to launch Vision 2026, a plan to transition the tourism industry from the effects of the pandemic and transform it into a thriving tourist destination. It will take work, but we will get there. The potential for this industry is endless, and we have proven that if we work together to advance our collective goals, we can achieve great things.

I ask all members to join me in thanking our tourism operators and partners, and in wishing them a wonderful National Tourism Week.

Thank you.