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

 Speaker, our new government is positioning Newfoundland and Labrador to stand proudly as the tourism capital of Canada – where visitors come for an authentic, unforgettable experience. And behind every great visitor experience is a diverse and hardworking workforce.

Speaker, every year, as part of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador’s Trade Show and Conference, the Tourism Excellence Award recipients are announced. These awards honour our province’s exceptional operators that demonstrate passion, innovation, dedication, and creativity in their tourism endeavours.

We are proud to have many individuals, such as John Steele, Donna Butt, Christina Loveless, and Chef Roary MacPherson, and organizations such as Pollen Nation Farm, Happy Adventure Inn, Champney’s West Heritage Group, Ride In Style, Ochre House Retreat, Cliff’s Edge Retreat, and Lighthouse Picnics, who were acknowledged last week for their leadership, passion, and contributions that continue to shape and elevate tourism in our province.

Speaker, tourism supports our broader vision. A strong tourism sector strengthens our economy and helps us invest in the health care people rely on, create safer communities, and build a better future for generations to come.

Together, we will build a stronger, more vibrant arts, culture and heritage, and tourism industry – for all of us.