Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Atlantic Canada’s spectacular landscapes, delicious food and rich cultural experiences attracted millions of visitors every year. With public health and travel restrictions still in place, the tourism sector is facing a long and challenging road to recovery. That is why the Governments of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada are investing in businesses like Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland Destination Management Organization Inc. (a marketing and industry engagement non-profit), to help the provincial tourism industry thrive, grow and come back strong.
To celebrate Tourism Week, the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, along with Churence Rogers, Member of Parliament for Bonavista-Burin-Trinity, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, today announced a total contribution of $670,146 to Legendary Coasts.
This investment will help the organization launch marketing activities to promote Newfoundland and Labrador as a global geotourism destination. The campaign will spotlight the province’s spectacular geological heritage, combined with unique cultural experiences to attract more visitors to the region, once it is safe to travel again.
The addition of more people and program-based experiential tourism to existing infrastructure and activities is a priority for tourism development. Support for these projects demonstrates a focus on small businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador and contributes to the Provincial Government’s commitment to strengthen the province’s economic foundation.
Today’s announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to help tourism businesses and organizations reach new markets and prepare for a strong recovery.
Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador is a top of mind destination for many explorers who want to experience unique adventures. The collaborative work by Legendary Coasts and partners will promote the special geological attractions of the Eastern Region. This will not only celebrate our spectacular geology but also help drive visitation and spending, benefitting tourism operators throughout the region.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“It is vital we find new ways to support our tourism industry and help rebuild their important impact on our economy. This investment showcases many of Newfoundland and Labrador’s geological treasures, invites travellers to discover a world-class outdoor destination, and shines a light on the half-a-billion years of history that underpins all of the amazing experiences this province has to offer.”
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
“Atlantic Canadians have long been proud to welcome tourists from across Canada and all over the world to enjoy the region’s incredible vistas, warm hospitality and rich cultures. During Tourism Week, and beyond, it is our priority to ensure that the tourism sector is well-positioned to deliver a vibrant, world-class visitor experience when it is safe to travel again.”
Honourable Mélanie Joly
Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA
“Newfoundland and Labrador’s outstanding geological features, combined with our rich and diverse cultural landscape, offers a visitor experience like no other. This support for Legendary Coasts will help showcase our breath-taking coastlines and national parks to a global audience, drawing more visitors to our shores when it is safe to do so.”
Churence Rogers
Member of Parliament for Bonavista-Burin-Trinity
“With the support from both federal and provincial governments, we are taking advantage of the opportunity to create a stunning series highlighting some of our provinces amazing features – geology, culture and communities. It’s time Newfoundland and Labrador finds its place in the global geotourism industry.”
Chris Sheppard
Executive Director of Eastern Destination Management Organization Inc.
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Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland Destination Management Organization
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Media contacts
Eric Humber
Industry, Energy and Technology
709-729-2691
erichumber@gov.nl.ca
Kathryn Summers
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4819, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca
Catherine Mounier-Desrochers
Office of the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages
Catherine.Mounier-Desrochers@canada.ca
Paul McGrath
ACOA NL
709-689-5731
paul.mcgrath@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Chris Sheppard
Legendary Coasts of Eastern Newfoundland Destination Management Organization Inc.
709-427-8387
chris.sheppard@legendarycoasts.com