Next week is designated ‘Tourism Week in PEI’ in celebration of one of Prince Edward Island’s primary industries, Economic Development and Tourism Minister Heath MacDonald says.
“Whether you’re visiting the West Point Lighthouse or seeing a play at the Kings Playhouse, tourism touches every aspect of life – from one tip of our province to the other,” Minister MacDonald said. “While every week should be tourism week in PEI, this particular week is a chance to recognize the industry’s contribution to our economy and thank the operators who work to create a visitor experience that’s among the best in the world.”
After the PEI2014 celebrations resulted in a record-breaking year for tourism, the momentum carried into 2015. New records were set in overnight stays, Confederation Bridge traffic, national park visits, and non-member golf rounds played.
Indications from tourism operators point to strong pacing of bookings for the 2016 season. Room-nights sold through April are up more than 16 per cent from last year and many operators are reporting increased bookings year over year so far into this season.
“Coinciding with ‘Tourism Week in Canada,’ ‘Tourism Week in PEI’ helps kick-off what we hope will be another successful season in Prince Edward Island,” said Kevin Mouflier, CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of PEI (TIAPEI). “Keep an eye out for several special events we will be holding over the next month intended to raise the profile of the industry and help educate all Islanders about the role they play in making every one of our visitors feel welcome.”
TIAPEI is leading an effort to develop a five-year strategy for the tourism industry on Prince Edward Island together with the federal and provincial governments.
Tourism plays a larger role in the Prince Edward Island than anywhere else in Canada and creates jobs and sustainability in our rural areas. It accounts for more than 6 per cent of the province’s economy or GDP (gross domestic product), which is twice the national average and more than in any other province or territory.
The tourism industry sustains more than 7,700 direct jobs and $200 million in wages each year for Islanders, contributes $60 million in provincial taxes, and adds $400 million to the province’s economy.