VICTORIA, B.C., November 4, 2007 — The Honourable Diane Ablonczy, Secretary of State, Small Business and Tourism, today announced an additional commitment of $26 million to the Canadian tourism industry for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The announcement was made to key members of Canada's tourism industry on the eve of Canada's Tourism Leadership Summit in Victoria B.C.
"I am very proud to announce that the Government of Canada has approved a further $26 million over five years for the Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) to maximize the opportunities presented by Vancouver hosting the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Our government believes that a strong tourism industry plays an important role in the economy of all regions of Canada and is supporting tourism through various programs and services," said Secretary of State Ablonczy.
The $26 million to promote the Games adds to the significant investment that the Government of Canada already makes to the tourism industry. The federal government invests over $400 million annually in tourism-related activities such as marketing and research, national parks, historic sites and museums, events and tourism-related infrastructure.
The Secretary of State reiterated the government's commitment to examining and addressing top industry challenges.
"In Budget 2007, we created the Foreign Convention and Tour Incentive Program, which will provide GST relief for visitors to Canada, whether the visit is for business or leisure," said Secretary of State Ablonczy. "Our government has already announced $110 million in funding for the 400th anniversary of Québec City in 2008, which will attract many international visitors."
The Speech from the Throne reaffirmed the government's commitment to tourism. The Economic Statement presented by the Minister of Finance outlines the next steps in Advantage Canada, including an additional cut to the GST and general corporate income tax rate. The reduction of the GST rate from six percent to five percent will make Canada a more affordable destination for both Canadian and international tourists.
The reduction of the general corporate income tax rate to 15 percent by 2012 will strengthen our tax advantage to help all Canadian businesses compete and succeed in the global marketplace and attract investment to Canada. This will increase productivity and economic growth, and create more and better jobs for Canadians.
Hosting the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will give Canada a unique opportunity to showcase itself to the world and will result in a significant sport, cultural, social and economic legacy for Canada. To date, the Government of Canada has invested $552 million in support of the games.
"These Games are already opening up new distribution channels for us and broadening our partnership base," said Michele McKenzie, President and CEO of the CTC. "With this funding in place, we will be able to advance global awareness of Canada's tourism brand like never before."
The CTC's five-year strategy intends to improve Canada's standings in the global tourism rankings by turning Canada into a must see now destination. The consistent application of a tourism brand that builds powerful personal relationships between international consumers and Canada is the heart of the CTC's strategic approach.
For more information, please contact:
Catherine Godbout
Communications Assistant
Office of the Honourable Diane Ablonczy
Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism)
613-947-5856
Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502