COVID-19 Updates > Tourism Advocacy Update – May 29, 2020
Publié le 29 mai 2020
May 29, 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:
|
|
|
TIAC’s Advocacy Update
- The Ministry of Finance is seeking public input on the Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy program from Canadian employers
- TIAC encourages all industry businesses to take the time to fill out the consultation form, and emphasize the industry’s ongoing need for wage support while businesses try to reopen their doors with fewer financial resources this year
- TIAC’s Vice-President, Stakeholder Relations and Business Development joined a regular call with ISED ADM, Paul Thompson, where he emphasized TIAC’s call for tourism-specific recovery support, as well as continued need for funding access
- An update was also given on industry questions and concerns raised during TIAC’s virtual town halls held this week with industry stakeholders in Alberta, Manitoba and Ontario
- TIAC’s President and CEO spoke with the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages’ office today to discuss Canada’s Tourism Roundtable request for dialogue on reopening the visitor economy.
- The letter, signed in collaboration with many industry organizations, can be read here
- The President and CEO also spoke with NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and NDP Tourism Critic Gord Johns on the state of the industry and the need to support the sector’s immediate needs for liquidity and dialogue on reopening the visitor economy.
- Today, Transport Canada announced that restrictions on large passenger vessels and cruise ships will be extended until at least October 31, 2020.
|
|
|
Government Announcements
- Today, the Prime Minister reiterated that the federal government has been working with provinces and territories to keep Canadians safe throughout this crisis
- Government discussions will continue to ensure that as we enter the recovery phase, every employee will have ten days of paid sick leave per year.
- The Prime Minister announced $650 million to support Indigenous communities including health care, income assistance and shelters.
- As shared above, the Prime Minister announced the decision with Minister Garneau that large cruise ships will not be allowed in Canadian waters until at least October 31, 2020.
- Airline refunds were also addressed in this morning’s press conference, with the Prime Minister saying we will continue to work with the industry and with concerned Canadians to ensure we find a fair way through this, while ensuring we have an airline industry to come back to after this difficult pandemic.
- The government is looking at what other airline companies are doing around the world and will have more to say in the coming weeks.
|
|
|
In Case You Missed It …
- It’s Tourism Week! Find messaging, social media materials and more at www.tourismmatters.ca
- TIAC’s last Virtual Town Hall with Travel Alberta was hosted yesterday afternoon – wrapping up an important week of dialogue with stakeholders during our three Virtual Town Halls
|
|
|
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:
|
|
|
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 Tourism Hamilton and their latest page entitled “9 Inspiring Acts on Generosity”. This page recognizes how Hamilton’s tourism and hospitality partners have stepped up to help the community during this challenging time. You can read these inspiring stories here.
Thanks to Dana from Tourism Hamilton for reaching out to us and sharing your story!
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.
|
|
