One of the Island’s most important industries is being recognized today for its vital contribution to the province’s economy and the thousands of jobs it provides Islanders, says Minister of Economic Development and Tourism Heath MacDonald.
“Today, I am very pleased to declare June as Tourism Month on Prince Edward Island,” said Minister MacDonald. “It’s essential that Islanders understand just how important the tourism industry is to the provincial economy and to the Island as a whole. By declaring June as Tourism Month, and by partnering with industry to provide financial assistance and in-kind services, we demonstrate our commitment to tourism on Prince Edward Island.”
Tourism provides over 7,000 full time equivalent jobs for Islanders. It accounts for approximately $400 million in economic activity each year and seven percent of GDP, the highest percentage of any Canadian province. Preliminary figures from 2014 show over 1.36 million people visited the Island last year.
Tourism benefits other industries on the Island like agriculture and the fishery by exposing people from all over the world to the excellent food harvested and produced on Canada’s Food Island. It also helps showcase our unique culture and world famous hospitality.
Tourism PEI provides financial support to various partners in the tourism industry in excess of $2.7 million a year. The industry has also received millions of dollars in financing from various government lending programs that help businesses get off the ground, or allow them to expand operations. All of this support is vital to the success of tourism related operations across the province.
“This time of year it is important to stimulate our industry’s enthusiasm and ramp up the season in anticipation of welcoming our guests and providing excellent customer service,” said the President of the Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island Kevin Mouflier. “Throughout Tourism Month operators are invited to take advantage of Island familiarization tours, educational sessions and World Host training. That training gives tourism ambassadors an opportunity to experience some of the incredible offerings available to visitors and pass those experiences on. What better way to sell and market our product.”