As well as a commitment to increase annual tourism spending made in the 2015 throne speech, the Manitoba government, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and Travel Manitoba will host a tourism industry summit to develop a long-term vision for growth in the tourism sector with input from the tourism industry and other associated businesses. This announcement was made by Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Sport and Consumer Protection Minister Ron Lemieux.
“Tourism generates $1.5 billion in revenue, supports more than 24,500 jobs and generates more than $250 million in tax revenue,” Minister Lemieux said. “That’s why, in the recent speech from the throne, our government committed to increasing investments in tourism and introducing a sustainable tourism funding model. We’re pleased to be working with the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce and Travel Manitoba to continue showing the world that Manitoba is where Canada’s Heart Beats.”
In November, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce submitted its State of the Tourism Industry Recommendations to government, calling for a summit on tourism and the development of a tourism strategy with a sustainable funding model for tourism marketing.
The Manitoba government is also committing to a sustainable tourism investment of a 96-4 split as called for by the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce to support Travel Manitoba and the province’s tourism industry. Under this model, the province would receive 96 per cent of all tourism tax revenue with the remaining four per cent going to fund increased tourism marketing.
“Tourism is a critical pillar in Manitoba’s economy and with a solid strategic direction through sustainable investment, it can contribute to the growth and strength of our province,” said Chuck Davidson, president and CEO, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. “We are pleased that the Manitoba government shares this vision and we look forward to working together.”
Manitoba is uniquely positioned with a host of world-class attractions, a significant variety of events and natural spaces that offer unique and spectacular tourism experiences, Minister Lemieux said. A recent article in National Geographic Traveler named Winnipeg as one of the top 20 trips of 2016 and Travel Manitoba will be presented with an Adrian Award in hospitality marketing for its ‘Roadside Madness’ social media campaign at a gala in New York City. The upcoming summit will continue the momentum that already exists and continue to push Manitoba tourism to new heights, the minister said.
“We’ve seen success with our awe-inspiring and award-winning ‘Manitoba…Canada’s Heart Beats’ brand,” said Colin Ferguson, CEO, Travel Manitoba. “We’re attracting visitors from around the world with new tourism assets such as the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and Journey to Churchill, and events like the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Grey Cup. The commitment to increased investment in tourism marketing will provide immediate returns in terms of jobs, tax revenue and new opportunities for tourism businesses and entrepreneurs.”
The summit will be held Jan. 12, 2016, in Winnipeg.
