Statement for National Tourism Week

Elizabeth May released the following statement for National Tourism Week:

“This week is an opportunity to highlight the incredible tourism experiences that Canada has to offer, and to celebrate 2017 as an exceptional year to visit our country. We are seeing encouraging growth in the tourism sector, which employs 1.7 million Canadians and makes up more than 2% of Canada’s GDP: nearly as much as our forestry and agricultural sectors combined. Thanks to renewed funding and focus on promoting Canadian tourism abroad, we saw an 11.1% growth in overnight arrivals of international visitors to Canada in 2016.

“Our 150th anniversary of Confederation, Montreal’s 375th birthday and our pristine nature are just a few reasons why The New York Times named Canada as the top tourism destination for 2017. Tourism is such a critical economic sector to Canada. As the world flocks to visit, we are reminded why are so proud to be Canadian.

“As MP for Saanich-Gulf Islands, I want to particularly offer an invitation to Canadians to visit my home area – the Greenest in Canada‎! The Gulf Islands National Parks Reserve, the southern Gulf Islands, Butchart Gardens, and so much more await you on southern Vancouver Island,” Ms. May concluded.