The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation, today announced Tourism Awareness Week, previously observed annually in May, has been extended through the full month. Minister Crocker and Brenda O’Reilly, Chair of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador, signed a proclamation recognizing May as Tourism Awareness Month.
During Tourism Awareness Month, Hospitality NL will host a series of virtual events for tourism operators. With sessions focused on different areas of the tourism industry, Tourism Awareness Month aims to inspire and celebrate the tourism industry as operators embark on their peak season in the face of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Tourism is a vital economic driver in Newfoundland and Labrador. Prior to the pandemic, the industry generated over $1.14 billion in visitor spending each year, representing over 20,000 jobs and 2,800 businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador.
As government works to support the tourism industry through the COVID-19 pandemic, the focus is placed on the road to recovery and the resurgence of tourism in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Quotes
“I am pleased to recognize the month of May as Tourism Awareness Month. Now, more than ever, we need to focus on supporting our local businesses and tourism operators. It is important that we continue to support those who work so hard to create, produce and showcase so many incredible tourism products and experiences in our communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
Honourable Steve Crocker
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
“Tourism is a celebration of who we are as a people and as a place. It showcases our heritage, culture, how we live and work in the place we call home. During the month of May, we will celebrate the people who provide those memorable and heartwarming tourism experiences and illustrate the roles these professionals have in their communities. The tourism sector is one of the pillars of the provincial economy, but has been one of the hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important that our people are recognized for their work and their contribution to our province, our home.”
Brenda O’Reilly
Chair, Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador
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Media contacts
Kathryn Summers
Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation
709-729-4819, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca
Craig Foley
Hospitality NL
709-722-2000 ext. 232
cfoley@hnl.ca