February 06, 2003

Manitoba's tourism sector has grown 28 per cent in the last three years into a $1.3 billion-a-year industry, Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Eric Robinson announced today.

"A healthy tourism industry not only translates into jobs and revenue, it is a focal point for community development and nurtures pride and community spirit," said Robinson. "We are committed to increasing partnerships with the tourism industry and continuing our success. One of my key priorities in this development will be the creation and implementation of an Aboriginal tourism strategy."

Speaking at the Discover Manitoba forum, designed to foster increased partnership and promote Manitoba as a tourist destination, the minister noted that tourism and related industries create 60,000 jobs in the province, employing one-in-ten people in Manitoba. Each day, the sector contributes more than $3.5 million to Manitoba's economy.

The minister congratulated the newly created tourism advisory council for its work as they take the lead in moving to a new public-private partnership with the development of a tourism agency. The council recently completed a report which analyses optimum models for the development of this partnership.

"Tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors in the world and we are pleased with our competitive position and performance in the industry," said Robinson.

Year-to-date, Manitoba is the only jurisdiction to record positive growth of overseas tourists. For the period ending Nov. 30, Canada experienced a decrease of 6.1 per cent in the total number of overseas tourists entering Canada for one or more nights. In contrast, the total number of overseas tourists entering Manitoba for one or more nights increased by 1.4 per cent in the same period.

The minister also announced that, as a result of a forum with leaders of the cultural and heritage sector last November, a strategy will be implemented to invest in developing these aspects of the tourism industry.

"We know that visitors are looking for unique, authentic experiences when they travel. Manitoba has a wealth of cultural and heritage treasures, all waiting to be shared with national and international tourists," said Robinson. "We are also investing in eco-tourism and adventure travel. They will be managed as key growth opportunities within a respectful and sustainable environment as we celebrate and share the riches of our beautiful geography and breathtaking natural sites."

The Discover Manitoba forum is being held today and tomorrow. The tourism expo will be held Feb. 7, 8 and 9 at the Winnipeg Convention Centre and is open to the public.

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