Breaching Bigg’s killer whale T137A “Jack”. Photo: Alli Montgomery, FRS Clipper (PWWA)

I’m excited to share with you the latest developments in our advocacy efforts on behalf of the tourism industry. In our commitment to ensure your voices are heard, we have recently made three significant submissions to the government, contributing to public consultations on key issues affecting our sector.

These submissions represent our continued dedication to advocating for policies that will support and strengthen the tourism industry. We are focused on driving positive change and ensuring that the concerns and needs of our members are front and centre in government decision-making.

We will keep you updated as these consultations progress and will continue to champion the interests of our members at every opportunity.

Thank you for your unwavering support and participation in these vital efforts. Together, we are making a difference.

Competition in Canada’s Airline Industry

On July 29, 2024, the Competition Bureau of Canada launched a market study to examine airline competition across the country. As the leading national private-sector advocate for Canada’s tourism sector, TIAC was invited to contribute to the study. TIAC’s submission emphasized the critical role our airlines play in our tourism sector, not only for international tourists, but for domestic travel as well. While the industry has mostly recovered from the decline in travel as a result of the pandemic and travel restrictions, overnight tourist arrivals are still below the record high attained in 2019. As prospective domestic and international travellers cite high airfare costs as a major detractor, TIAC strongly recommends that the Government of Canada mitigate the exorbitance of third-party fees, which can range from $130 to $160 for domestic flights. By purposefully reinvesting these fees in infrastructure and the industry, the Government will enhance service and provide vital cost relief for airline users.   The final report will be published in June 2025.

READ: TIAC's Submission to the Competition Bureau Regarding Competition in Canada's Airline Industry

Proposed Marine Mammal Regulations Amendments

TIAC had the opportunity to contribute to the Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) consultation on amendments to the Marine Mammal Regulations, which would impact whale-watch operations in Canada.

Our country is home to several populations of killer whales. Consequently, whale-watch operators play an essential role in attracting travellers by providing them with unique experiences. In B.C., whale-watch operators are part of the Pacific Whale Watch Association, which supports $132 million in economic activity and over one thousand jobs. TIAC is advocating to maintain the current distance of 200 metres for non-Southern Resident Killer Whales, and only increase the distance for endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales to 1000 metres only, which would align it with the 1,000-yard regulation of the state of Washington.

READ: TIAC's Letter to the DFO Consultation on Proposed Marine Mammal Regulations Amendments

Pre-Budget Consultations

In 2023, tourism contributed 1.8 per cent to our national GDP and employed almost two million people. As global demand for tourism continues to grow, so will our sector. To realize the full potential of tourism and ensure its sustainable growth, TIAC is calling upon the Government of Canada to make key investments in workforce development, infrastructure, and transportation.

The recommendations submitted for Budget 2025 aim to stimulate economic growth and productivity and fortify the global competitiveness of Canada’s tourism businesses and travel destinations.

READ: TIAC's Submission to the Pre-Budget Consultation in Advance of Budget 2025