Federal-Provincial-Territorial Conference of Ministers responsible for Tourism

Quebec, November 1, 2003. – Federal, provincial and territorial ministers responsible for Tourism in Canada continued their unprecedented collaboration in support of Canada’s tourism industry, adopting a new framework for coordinated efforts with the signing today of the Quebec Declaration at the close of their two-day meeting at the Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City.

The ministers present also announced the formation of a Canadian Council of Ministers of Tourism with a mandate to promote coordination, cooperation and action among federal, provincial and territorial governments responsible for tourism. Furthermore, they will work towards the establishment of a “Tourism Momentum Fund”. This fund would add new investment to the sector and be a full partnership between provincial, territorial governments and the federal government. Finally, they committed to finalize a national tourism strategy by December 15, 2003, in close collaboration with major stakeholders. The implementation of this strategy will be respectful of each government’s jurisdiction and all stakeholders.

The ministers committed to support the growth of the tourism industry, to promote the importance of this industry to the Canadian economy and to facilitate the development of sustainable tourism. The ministers are challenging themselves and their partners in the tourism industry to increase Canadian tourism revenues to $75 billion in 2010. Canada’s tourism industry revenues totaled $51.8 billion in 2002.

Mrs. Nathalie Normandeau, Minister for Quebec Regional Development and Tourism, and Mr. Allan Rock, Minister of Industry Canada and Minister responsible for Tourism, who co chaired the meeting, expressed strong support for the consensus reached among ministers.

“A key driver of our economy, tourism brings the world to Canada, promoting our identity, culture and values. I am pleased to see the continued dedication of our partners in provincial and territorial governments and across the tourism industry as we work together to build on Canada’s world-class reputation as a tourist destination”, said Minister Rock.

“I am pleased to see all that’s been accomplished in only five months. The excellent work environment, and this partnership among the governments, demonstrate our joint commitment to back the tourism industry,” Minister Normandeau said.

Through increased cooperation between federal, provincial and territorial governments, progress has been made in helping Canada’s tourism industry emerge from the challenges of this summer, with efforts to promote the tourism industry continuing in all regions of the country. Spearheaded by Industry Canada and the regional development agencies, and in partnership with provincial and territorial governments, innovative marketing campaigns and infrastructure projects are being undertaken and investments in Canadian attractions continue.

The next meeting of the Ministers responsible for Tourism will be held in Montreal in May 2004 where the progress of the strategy implementation will be reviewed.

- 30 -

The Quebec Declaration, the National Strategy in Tourism and photographs from the meeting are available will be on line at www.strategis.ic.gc.ca/tourism on November 3^rd.

Contacts:

                                               

Luc Berthold            Press Attaché            Office of the Minister responsible for Regional Development and Tourism            (418) 528-8063

Mylène Dupéré            Press Secretary            Office of Allan Rock            Minister of Industry Canada            (613) 943-7003