FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

 

 

 

OTTAWA (November 20, 2019) – The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) welcomes the appointment of Mélanie Joly as Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, continuing the strong relationship built between the Minister and TIAC during the previous government. 

 

TIAC President and CEO, Charlotte Bell, connected with the Minister’s office just after the announcement of the new Trudeau Cabinet was announced, and TIAC is very pleased that the Minister has underscored her personal commitment to the sector.

 

“We look forward to building on the important tourism foundation that was built with Minister Joly as she enters her newly expanded role of Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages,” said Bell. “Tourism is one of Canada’s key economic drivers that touches Canadians from coast to coast to coast across a range of industries, and we are proud to see Tourism included amongst Canada’s leading economic priorities in this new portfolio. Minister Joly has always fought hard for Tourism, and we trust that this will continue.” 

 

In 2018, tourism garnered $102 billion for the Canadian economy, by far surpassing many other industries – accounting for 2.1% of Canada’s GDP and supporting 1.8 million jobs for Canadians. It is also Canada’s largest service export, contributing $22.1 billion to the economy. 

 

“The sheer economic strength of tourism that goes far and beyond other industries is an important point to highlight as we welcome the Minister in her expanded capacity,” added Bell. “TIAC recognizes the important role Minister Joly has played in advancing Tourism in Canada. Her expanded role will allow her even greater ability to deliver on important initiatives including the implementation of Tourism as the 7th Economic Strategy Table and the roll-out of Canada’s New Tourism Growth Strategy.” 

 

“Canada’s visitor economy has received cross-party support, with tourism commitments included in every major party platform in the last election,” added Bell. “TIAC has developed a strong, productive relationship with the Minister. We look forward to continuing our work together in support of this important economic engine and job creator for the country. ”

 

“On behalf of Canada’s tourism and travel sector, I would like to congratulate Minister Joly and the rest of cabinet and we look forward to continuing to position Canada as a global tourism leader, and strengthening our economy for the benefit of Canadians,” finished Bell. 

 

 

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Founded in 1930 to encourage the development of tourism in Canada, The Tourism Industry Association of Canada serves today as the national private-sector advocate for this $102 billion sector. Based in Ottawa, TIAC takes action on behalf of Canadian tourism businesses and promotes positive measures that help the industry grow and prosper.

 

 

Director, Public Affairs and Communications

Tourism Industry Association of Canada

mdiaz@tiac-aitc.ca

t: 613-238-6378