Minister of State Rob Moore Highlights Harper Government's Commitment to Growing Canada's Tourism Industry

"On the heels of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, and the securing of Approved Destination Status with China, we are supporting the tourism industry's great potential and helping to create jobs," said Minister of State Moore. "The economy remains the top priority of the Harper Government."

Ontario's festivals and events are both culturally enriching and economically important and draw visitors from all over the world. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2011, the Festival & Events Ontario Conference is the largest of its kind and welcomes more than 200 delegates each year. Conference participants attend presentations and workshops led by some of the industry's most experienced professionals.

"With Canada's economic recovery still fragile, we are concentrating on creating jobs and economic growth for Canadians," said Minister of State Moore. "That is why we are focused on the next phase of Canada's Economic Action Plan."

In his remarks, Minister of State Moore highlighted the government's significant investment in tourism through Canada's Economic Action Plan, including short-term stimulus funding of $150 million to enhance the visitor experience in Canada's national parks and historic sites, $100 million to the Marquee Tourism Events Program, and $40 million for tourism marketing through the Canadian Tourism Commission. Minister of State Moore embarked on a highly successful tourism mission to China in October 2010 to maximize the opportunities presented by Canada's Approved Destination Status.

Ontario's festivals and events, such as the Stratford Festival and Toronto's Winterlicious Festival, provide domestic and international visitors with unique travel experiences. Tourism makes a significant impact to Canada's economy overall, representing 2 percent of gross domestic product and generating approximately 617,000 jobs. 613-943-2502