News Release Archive
ECONOMIC RENEWAL--PROVINCE TO SURPASS TOURISM GROWTH FORECAST ----------------------------------------------------------------- The province is optimistic about the future of Nova Scotia tourism, and Economic Renewal Minister Richie Mann is predicting faster growth than a Conference Board of Canada forecast. "I know we can do better than the forecast. But it will require effort by all of us," Mr. Mann recently told members of tourist associations in Halifax and Truro. The Conference Board is forecasting a 3.4 per cent increase in tourism expenditures, and more than two per cent growth in both business and leisure travel in Nova Scotia. A number of factors will help boost activity, said Mr. Mann. These include continued growth in Canadian and American economies, a steady Canadian dollar, stronger efforts to attract tourists and events such as Cabot Reflections in Cape Breton and the Year of Music celebrations. Mr. Mann outlined a number of initiatives to help bring in tourists, including a $1.5 million joint effort with the federal government that will target German and United Kingdom travellers. Air Canada will kick in an additional $1.5 million in services and promotional activities. This month, a group of public and private sector representatives will also head to Iceland for the Canada-U.S.-Scandinavia marketplace. He also called on industry to help create and promote programs aimed at niche markets. "We have to work together to find out what appeals to our tourists. After we get them here, we have to think about how to keep them longer," he said. Eco-tourism is one area that holds promise, he said. "We have natural advantages. We're surrounded by the sea. We have thousands of lakes, rivers and unspoiled areas with an abundance of wildlife. Not only do nature tourists spend more time in the province, they also travel in larger parties and spend more during their stay." Cultural tourism also has great potential, said Mr. Mann, who added that people who come to experience culture also spend more money and tend to stay longer. "We've released a discussion paper on the issue and we're looking for input," he said. Mann stressed the need for all industry players to work together. "There's consensus on the need to move away from government-led tourism initiatives and into a true partnership with industry. That's why I made a commitment to explore a new partnership." The nature of that partnership is now being examined by a joint committee of government and industry representatives, which is looking for broad representation from all stakeholders. Ultimately, the committee hopes to find a new way of operating together on everything from research and marketing to strategic planning and product development. "It's the only way we can take advantage of the opportunities. More teamwork, rather than more money, may well be the solution," he said. -30- contact: Angela Poirier 902-424-3900 sab Feb. 11, 1997 10:15 a.m.