COVID-19 Updates > Tourism Advocacy Update – May 13, 2020
posted on May 13, 2020
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May 13, 2020
Dear Tourism Stakeholders,
The TIAC Team continues to monitor and provide daily updates on the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, including the steps government is taking to address the situation. We are working hard to make sure the industry’s voice is heard by government, and that you have the information you need to keep your business going in these uncertain times.
Please find the latest updates on official announcements and a recap of TIAC’s advocacy work on behalf of Canada’s Tourism Sector:
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TIAC’s Advocacy Update
- Today, Canada’s six Canada’s Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) are now accepting applications under the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF). TIAC has long been advocating for financial support for small, seasonal, rural and other SMEs, including DMOs who have not been able to access existing government support measures.
- The $1B in support will help to:
- mitigate the financial pressure experienced by businesses and organizations to allow them to continue their operations, including paying their employees;
- support projects by businesses, organizations and communities to prepare now for a successful recovery.
- More information on the fund and which RDA you apply to can be found here: https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/icgc.nsf/eng/h_07682.html
- Today TIAC’s VP of Business Development and Stakeholder Relations participated in the Canada Employment Insurance Commission’s Business Liaison Group hosted by Judith Andrew, Commissioner (Employers) / Commissaire (Employeurs)
- This meeting focused on assisting association memberships in getting through the pandemic by evaluating what is working in employment support and what adjustments are needed and initiatives for potential for mutual support.
- TIAC provided input on key needs for tourism employers and gaps in existing measures.
In Case You Missed It …
- The President & CEO participated in a COVID-19 webinar hosted by Destination Canada yesterday evening, alongside Minister Melanie Joly
- The government extended access to the Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) to include larger, medium-sized enterprises; a program for large corporations was also launched – the Large Employer Emergency Financing Facility (LEEFF) which involves bridge financing for corporations facing liquidity challenges due to COVID-19
- As there are few details on these programs, we will provide details as information becomes available. See more information below under “Government Announcements”
- TIAC is releasing data collected from our April survey in coordination with McKinsey and Destination Canada
Resources for Businesses
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Government Announcements
- Today, the Prime Minister announced that further details will be released for the previously announced Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF) of nearly $1 billion. $675 million of this fund will be administered by the six regional development agencies, and will provide support to businesses in rural communities and those that may not qualify for other announced programs.
- Through the RRRF, support for tourism operators with needs like covering operational costs, access to liquidity, or to pay employees is available. Tourism operators that do not qualify for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) or the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) are encouraged to apply. Members must contact their RDA to apply for funding.
- Students and recent grads will be able to apply for the Canada Emergency Student Benefit starting Friday, via the CRA website.
- Health Canada has announced that a new serological COVID-19 test is approved and available in Canada. This new test can detect antibodies for COVID-19 in an individual’s blood, and is an important step in understanding immunity against the virus and how it spreads.
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Looking Ahead – COVID-19 Recovery
Several provinces have begun announcing plans for reopening economies. Timelines and actions vary, but can provide businesses and workers with information on what to expect in the upcoming weeks and months. TIAC is following up on measures announced by British Columbia to limit gatherings of more than 50 people and seeking a coordinated approach between provinces in the recovery phase. We have reached out to our provincial counterparts to work together in an effort to create an orderly recovery strategy that will address health concerns and support tourism businesses. TIAC will continue to add links to provincial recovery plans as they become available:
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TIAC Members: Making a difference
Thank you to the many TIAC Members who are helping during this difficult time. From those offering support like temporary housing for essential service providers, to others who brought home stranded Canadians from around the world. You are making a difference.
Today, we are recognizing Amos Pewter, a small business located in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia. Ames Pewter is keeping their community, customers, and potential visitors connected through a series called "At the Jeweler's Bench", where their artisans, from home, explain the tools, processes, and techniques that go into their designs. These episodes are available on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook - https://www.instagram.com/amospewter/channel/.
Amos Pewter is also giving back to their community after the tragedy in Portapique, NS last month. Beginning April 21st, all of the proceeds from the Nova Scotia Crest Ornament and Nova Scotia Crest Necklace have been donated to the affected families. https://www.amospewter.com/support-nova-scotia.html
Do you have a story to share about how tourism businesses are supporting communities during these challenging times? We want to hear from you whether you’re a TIAC member or not. We need to celebrate our industry and recognize your generosity during these trying times. Please share your stories with us at communications@tiac-aitc.ca.
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