WATERLOO, Ont. – The Federal government announced on Sunday that it is investing $30 million into the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) to provide financial relief to destination marketing organizations across southern Ontario that have experienced revenue shortfalls.
According to the press release, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the tourism sector to suffer greatly as travel and tourism-related activities have ceased since March.
“Our tourism sector and the 1.8 million people it employs across Canada have been hit hard by COVID-19, and we’re here for them,” Melanie Joly, minister of economic development and official languages said in the release. “During National Tourism Week, our message to the sector and those whose livelihoods depend on it is clear: we’re working with you to mitigate the impact of COVID-19. We’re working with you as our economy reopens so we can come back strong.”
The press release outlined that the funding would be coming from the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund, a program geared at helping those industries unable to access existing federal relief measures during the pandemic.
The release also noted that Tourism Toronto would be getting $7.9 million of the allocated funds, while Ottawa Tourism would be getting up to $5.2 million to help bring tourists back to that nation’s capital as the economy reopens.
“Canada’s tourism sector showcases its culture, diversity, natural beauty and unique experiences to the world. It generates significant economic benefits across the country and supports one in 10 jobs,” the press release read.
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