Hospitality NL Optimistic About Acknowledgement of Tourism and Hospitality Industry in Throne Speech

For immediate release

September 23, 2020 – Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador is optimistic after the throne speech made today outlining government’s plan, particularly by the added support measures promised for hardest hit businesses.

As the tourism industry struggles to survive, it’s encouraging to see The Government of Canada recognize a needed investment in travel and tourism, considering the disproportionate economic shock the tourism industry has had to face. Today’s throne speech includes measures to support regional routes for airlines, extension of the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS), a promise to expand the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA), improving the Business Credit Availability Program (BCAP) and introducing further support for industries that have been the hardest hit including travel and tourism, hospitality and cultural industries like the performing arts.

“We are very optimistic about the fact that tourism and hospitality was mentioned specifically. By having these support measures in place it gives some operators in our industry a real chance at survival…especially because of reduced visitation and resulting decreased revenues” says Hospitality NL Chair, Steve Denty. “Thanks to the advocacy efforts of Hospitality NL, it’s industry partners; Tourism Industry Association of Canada, Hotel Association of Canada, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada and other partners in the Coalition of Hardest Hit Businesses, industry’s voice was heard by government. Now that we understand the Government of Canada’s new priorities, we will continue to hold them accountable and look for more strategic ways to help our industry.”

The economic impact that COVID-19 has had on the tourism industry in Newfoundland and Labrador can not be understated. Contributing over 1 billion in spending with over 20,000 jobs in over 2,700 businesses, the tourism industry has been impacted greatly in both urban and rural communities throughout the province – threatening the existence of our heritage and our culture.

Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador, the provincial tourism industry association for over 35 years, is dedicated to advancing growth in tourism through advocacy efforts, skills and knowledge development and membership opportunities.

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Media Contact:
Shanelle Clowe
Manager, Advocacy & Communications
Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador
E: sclowe@hnl.ca
P: 709-722-2000 ext. 231
C: 709-325-1040