minister of tourism canada

Edmonton MP Boissonault named as federal minister of tourism

Edmonton Member of Parliament Randy Boissonault has been named as the new federal minister of tourism. 

Boissonault was sworn-in to the role on Tuesday morning. He is also now the associate minister of finance. 

He is one of 39 members of the new cabinet, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, that has just seven ministers retaining the portfolio they previously held.

Boissonault was elected in Edmonton Centre in 2015, defeated in 2019 and re-elected last month.

He was one of only two Liberals elected last month in Alberta.

The other, Calgary Skyview MP George Chahal, was left out of the new cabinet. Elections Canada is investigating him after a doorbell camera video showed him removing a rival candidate’s flyer.

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Minister of Tourism celebrates National Tourism Week 2023

From: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, made the following statement to mark National Tourism Week 2023

April 24, 2023 – Ottawa, Ontario

The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, made the following statement to mark National Tourism Week 2023:

“Happy National Tourism Week 2023 in Canada!

“This is an important occasion for all of us involved in the Canadian tourism industry to celebrate everything that Canada has to offer visitors from near and far.

“From our three wildly beautiful coasts to the remarkable interior, Canada has memorable experiences to offer travellers, no matter the season or the region.

“Spring is in full swing and summer is just around the corner. Like all those working in tourism—from hoteliers, to tour guides and operators, to transportation providers—I look forward to welcoming both first time and returning visitors to Canada, to share the spirit of respect, diversity and inclusion that Canadians embody every day.

“Canada makes all senses come alive with edge-of-your-seat, international sporting events, captivating cultural performances and exhibits, and eye-opening Indigenous experiences.

“Our culinary scene is world-class, as recognized last year by the fine folks at Michelin. Toronto and Vancouver now star in the Michelin Guide and can boast about being among the best in the dining world.  

“Domestic and international travellers have a growing interest in sustainable tourism, and Canada is well-positioned to deliver. An abundance of natural beauty and diverse outdoor experiences are a Canadian trademark and continue to attract people from around the world.

“Tourism creates jobs in every region of the country and empower communities large and small, in our rural and remote areas, and on ancestral Indigenous lands. No other sector of the economy can claim a reach that is as geographically diverse or demographically inclusive as tourism.

“As a country, tourism is Canada’s top service exports, even ahead of financial services and artificial intelligence innovation. The government is committed to seeing the industry continue to contribute to the country’s GDP; after all, Canada’s economic growth is directly tied to tourism’s growth.

“The Government of Canada is committed to seeing the Canadian tourism industry continue to grow and thrive, not just in a year from now, but for decades to come. That’s why we invested $158 million in Budget 2023 for Canadians and Indigenous partners to advance this goal.

“To that end, funding for Destination Canada will bring major international conventions, conferences, as well as business and sport events to Canada, while the expansion of the Electronic Travel Authorization Program will make Canada a more attractive destination for trusted travellers.

“Communities, small businesses, and non-profit organizations will also receive support to develop local projects and events, and small businesses will benefit from lower credit card fees, as announced in Budget 2023.

“The budget also affirmed that the government will present a new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy. Over the past year, we have held a series of roundtables to understand the concerns of business people and tourism stakeholders across the country. There were thematic roundtables on tourism investment, workforce challenges, and rural, sport, Indigenous, cultural, and culinary tourism, as well as regional roundtables to capture perspectives from people across the country.  

“Input received from all participants of the roundtables and from written submissions were very valuable, and we look forward to sharing our vision for the Canadian tourism sector’s very bright future. The new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy will be released soon, and it will set a course for growth, investment and stability for years to come.

“Interest in Canadian tourism experiences is high. We know this because tourism spending grew 2.1 % during the fourth quarter of 2022, the seventh consecutive quarterly increase. Our amazing landscapes, sustainable tourism offerings, welcoming spirit, and authentic Indigenous tourism experiences all contribute to Canada’s appeal. Now is the time to seize this opportunity and compete in an expanding international market.

“On the occasion of Tourism Week 2023, let’s come together to celebrate all that Canadian tourism is, and all that it can be.”  

Farrah-Lilia Kerkadi Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance 343-553-6203 [email protected]

Media Relations Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada [email protected]

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Minister of tourism wraps up inspiring cross-canada tour to share new federal tourism growth strategy with tourism businesses and partners.

The new strategy will propel the growth  and global competitiveness of Canadian tourism to new heights

OTTAWA, ON , July 12, 2023 /CNW/ -Tourism plays a crucial role in driving the Canadian economy and generating employment opportunities across the country, from rural, remote and Indigenous communities to the largest cities. Due to its inclusive nature, tourism provides jobs for women, youth, Black and racialized Canadians, newcomers, 2SLGBTQI+ people and those with disabilities at a higher proportion compared to other industries. Canada's rich diversity offers something for everyone, whether it's breathtaking outdoor adventures, vibrant urban experiences or unique Indigenous tourism experiences. With the renewed demand for travel, there is now a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Canada's visitor economy to push past reviving all the way to thriving and successfully compete on the global stage. The Government of Canada is committed to seizing this opportunity, ensuring the long-term success of the tourism industry for generations to come.

Today, the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, concluded his cross-country tour to promote the new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy , " Canada 365: Welcoming the World. Every Day." The strategy was unveiled on July 4 in Niagara Falls, Ontario , and the subsequent tour included stops in Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia ; Banff , Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta ; and Vancouver and Whistler, British Columbia . During his tour, Minister Boissonnault was accompanied by representatives from all orders of government, as well as key stakeholders and Indigenous partners from the tourism industry.

The new strategy, which aims to foster growth and global competitiveness in the industry, is the result of extensive national consultations with tourism businesses, industry associations, government bodies, Indigenous partners and destination marketing organizations. Their valuable insights regarding the opportunities and challenges facing the Canadian tourism industry have shaped the strategy's vision and goals.

By investing in Canada's tourism assets, embracing recreation and the great outdoors, partnering to grow Indigenous tourism experiences, attracting more international events and improving coordination through a federal ministerial council, the new strategy aims to unlock the full potential of Canadian tourism. It positions Canada as a global tourism leader and opens doors for future opportunities for Canada's visitor economy.

Minister Boissonnault expressed his gratitude to the communities, stakeholders, Indigenous organizations and tourism businesses that joined him on this tour. He emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration and partnerships between the government, industry and communities to ensure the success of the strategy. The Minister will continue sharing the new strategy with Canadians throughout the summer.

The new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy has been well received by partners, and the Government of Canada is confident that it will support Canadian tourism's growth trajectory and enhance its competitiveness, allowing Canada to thrive as a leading global tourism destination.

"This past week, I presented the new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy to people from coast to coast to coast. The strategy will propel the growth of Canada's visitor economy to new heights, providing a unique opportunity to harness its economic potential. By joining forces across government and industry, we will showcase Canada's diverse tourism attractions and warmly welcome visitors from around the world, every day of the year." – The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance

" Nova Scotia provides an authentic tourism experience from one end of the province to the other. The Federal Tourism Growth Strategy will be a critical component in setting the stage for future growth, investment and stability in Nova Scotia's tourism sector. This is a tremendous opportunity for all Canadians to help tourists discover our beautiful country and the natural wonders it has to offer." – The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship and Member of Parliament for Central Nova

"Our ocean city's coastal landscape, Atlantic hospitality and rich cultural heritage draw people from around the world, making our tourism industry an essential part of our local economy. This strategy will ensure that the tourism industry in Halifax—including our many shops, restaurants and attractions—recovers and keeps growing as we welcome the world to our shores." – Andy Fillmore , Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry and Member of Parliament for Halifax

"Tourism is the lifeblood of communities across Nova Scotia , employing thousands of people from all walks of life. Our new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy is a truly co-developed plan to guide the future growth of an industry that is vital to the success of our province. It will help our industry and workers thrive, and help Canada win the global race for visitors. I know Nova Scotia is ready to welcome the world, and this strategy will help us do it." – Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West

"Tourism is essential to Alberta , and especially to the Canadian Rockies. It drives our economy, employs our citizens and enriches our communities. This new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy will help drive the success of our tourism sector; therefore, it will drive the success of our community and our citizens. We will build on our existing assets, address the challenges we face and embrace the new opportunities we have to thrive." – Karen Sorensen , Senator for Alberta and Co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Tourism Caucus

"With its majestic mountain peaks, beautiful coastlines and West Coast hospitality, British Columbia provides a tourism experience like no other. Tourism is a key economic driver of our local communities, supporting small and medium-sized businesses and employing several hundred thousand people. Canada's new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy is a plan for the future, ensuring workers, industry and communities will thrive, bringing in new investment, and setting the stage for long-term success for this critical sector. Canada stands ready to show the world everything we have to offer." – Patrick Weiler , Co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Tourism Caucus and Member of Parliament for West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country

"Every year, our tourism sector brings people from around the world to British Columbia and to Canada . We have a lot to offer, whether you have been to Canada a dozen times or are planning your first trip. This strategy demonstrates the strength of our sector and lays the foundation for its future success. With this Federal Tourism Growth Strategy, Vancouver will continue to be ready to welcome the world, each and every day." – Taleeb Noormohamed, Member of Parliament for Vancouver Granville

Quick facts

Tourism is a key contributor to Canada's economy. In 2022, the industry supported approximately 623,375 direct jobs and 1.9 million total jobs.

In 2022, tourism contributed nearly $38 billion to Canada's GDP, generated close to $94 billion in revenue for businesses and accounted for almost 13% of service exports.

In 2022, there were 218,041 businesses in the tourism industry.

In 2022, non-resident tourism spending rose by almost 321% compared to the previous year, recovering to over 70% of the 2019 peak of $28.6 billion .

Destination Canada forecasts that tourism spending will fully recover by 2024 and international visitation will fully recover by 2026.

In 2022, youth made up about 33.2% of tourism workers, compared to the total economy average of 13.3%.

In 2022, immigrants made up 29.2% of the tourism labour force, slightly higher than the total economy average of 27.6%.

Associated links

Federal Tourism Growth Strategy

The Canadian tourism sector

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SOURCE Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

View original content: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/July2023/12/c5488.html

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A fireside chat with Canada’s Minister of Tourism at the 2023 TIAC Congress

November 30, 2023

Soraya Martinez Ferrada has been Canada’s minister of Tourism for only four months, but she already gets it.

“People are looking for authentic, real stories” she told Tourism Congress delegates during a one-on-one session with TIAC president, Beth Potter. “Canada has that, and even more important, can give them a safe space. Canada is unique in the world right now.”

Martinez Ferrada was first elected to Parliament representing the Quebec riding of Hochelaga in 2019. In September 2023, she was named Minister of Tourism and Minister Responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec.

She previously served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion (Housing), as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport, and as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.

With a background in the cultural community, and serving 10 years as a Montreal city councillor, Martinez Ferrada was well prepared for her current role, reaching out to industry members for information even before she received her department’s briefing.

Beth asked Martinez Ferrada about the roll out of the Federal Government Tourism Growth Strategy and its whole-of-government approach. There are 24 government departments that impact tourism.

“The Ministers Tourism Council will bring different departments together,” she said, but they to ensure that the ministers understand how they can contribute to tourism’s growth.

She is looking at several tourism issues within the whole-of-government concept.  She would like to see the needle move on transportation and access. issue she is focused on is transportation and access. How can we help the sector grow everywhere?

She is also looking for ways of dealing with housing challenges in the context of tourism development, so people can live where the tourism jobs are, and increasing Canada’s competitiveness.

Martinez Ferrada wants to ensure that the strategy can make a meaningful difference and would like to see the Ministers announce tangible progress every time they meet.

But she also pointed out that even with the whole-of-government federal approach, provincial ministers were crucial allies as well, explaining that they are acutely aware of the importance of transportation to tourism development in small, remote or Northern regions.

She was pleased to report on the steps that the federal government made on increasing the housing supply in the fall economic statement, as well as the government’s financial support of tourism.

The Tourism Growth Program, as an example, provides $106 million to support tourism projects that align with the Federal Tourism Growth Strategy.  The federal government also provides funding to Destination Canada and programs like the Indigenous Tourism Fund.

Martinez Ferrada said that her colleagues congratulated her for being the “fun minister,” but she understands that while tourism is an amazing industry, it is also a serious business and called on industry to be her active and engaged partner.

“I am tourism’s voice in cabinet and government” she told Congress delegates, “But I need your help to make tourism’s business case to government.”

Story by Debra Ward

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The Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Hochelaga in 2019. She has previously served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion (Housing), as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport, and as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.

For over 20 years, Minister Martinez Ferrada has been a strong voice for her community and for building a growing local economy and thriving cultural sector. For example, she created the very first cultural and socio-professional integration program at TOHU, a centre for the performing arts and a unique example of sustainable development in Montréal.

Minister Martinez Ferrada was involved in municipal politics for more than 10 years. In 2005, she was elected as a city councillor for Saint-Michel and was appointed to the City of Montréal’s Executive Committee as the Associate Advisor for Culture. From 2015 to 2018, she served as Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the Minister of Canadian Heritage.

Minister Martinez Ferrada holds a Master’s degree in management from the HEC Montréal. A resident of the east end of Montréal since she came to Canada from Chile as a political refugee with her family in 1980, she is a proud mother of two.

Tourism deputy rings up N.B. government's largest 2023 expense account

Moving costs and an $800-a-night hotel help push yennah hurley's expenses over $77,000.

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Luxury-hotel stays during an unpublicized trip to London and Paris and a personal move from Quispamsis to Fredericton helped deputy tourism minister Yennah Hurley, the former adviser to Premier Blaine Higgs, amass $77,710 in expenses in 2023.   

It's the largest amount claimed by a senior official in the New Brunswick government for the year, including the premier and cabinet ministers, according to online departmental expense reports.

New Brunswick releases information on expenses paid to ministers and senior government officials quarterly for travel, living expenses, car allowances, accommodations and other costs.  

It calls it an "effort to improve transparency, accountability and enhance the proactive disclosure of information."

In 2023, the largest amount claimed by an elected official for the calendar year was $52,522 by Higgs. That included $10,999 spent on a trip to Europe last May highlighted by Higgs's speech at the World Hydrogen Summit in the Netherlands.

Charges by the premier, however, were eclipsed by Hurley, whose expense claims ran nearly 50 per cent higher.

Hurley is a former small adventure business operator and travel blogger who has been New Brunswick's deputy minister of tourism since 2020.

She was hired in 2019 on a two-year consulting contract by Higgs to work in the Tourism Department and report directly to him on changes that might be made.

One change that came quickly was the firing of the previous deputy minister, Francoise Roy, a month after Hurley began work. Ten months later, Hurley had Roy's old job 

"I am proud that she is working with the people in the department," Higgs said in the legislature in 2019 in defending Hurley's initial hiring.

"I am proud that she is working with the minister because we are going to get things done by thinking differently. I am proud that she is part of the team."

In 2023, reports show, Hurley took several trips on government business both inside and outside Canada.

Expense reports contain little information on the purpose of trips, and Hurley was not made available for an interview.  However, her reports show $21,488 was spent on hotels in multiple locations, including Banff, Quebec City and North Carolina.

According to information provided by the province, the most expensive trip, an eight-day visit to Europe last September was an effort to boost international tourism interest in New Brunswick.

It was also said to be for gathering information on tourism sites of significance that are recognized by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization.

"The purpose of the mission was to discuss opportunities with international tour operators for visits to New Brunswick," Bruce Macfarlane, New Brunswick's senior director for media relations, wrote in response to a request for information about the trip.

"The mission also included site visits and meetings with UNESCO properties and museums with four nights in London and a four-night stay in Paris."

Four Tourism Department representatives went to Europe, according to Macfarlane, including Hurley and the minister, Tammy Scott-Wallace.

The group stayed at the Trafalgar St. James, a London hotel, before eventually moving to Hotel Lumen in Paris.

According to prices advertised online and expense reports submitted by both Scott-Wallace and Hurley, the hotels charge about $800 and $600 per night, respectively.

Hurley's expenses also included receipts for visits to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, an unspecified British museum, the London Eye, and the Palace of Versailles.  

There appeared to be no specific charges for business meetings during the eight days by either the minister or deputy minister. Hurley's expenses eventually totalled $12,328 with Scott-Wallace charging $10,199.

Isabelle Theriault, the deputy Liberal leader and opposition tourism critic, said she is surprised to hear about the trip.  

By coincidence last September, the Tourism Department was in front of the legislature's public accounts committee two weeks after Hurley returned from Paris, and Theriault questioned her about departmental efforts being made to promote New Brunswick in Europe.   

The trip was never mentioned.

"If I had known I would have asked questions about it," said Theriault.

"If they just came back from those regions in Europe why didn't they tell me, 'We went there to work on how to attract people from those regions.' But they chose not to tell."

Hurley's largest expense in 2023 was not travel-related. After her return from Europe, she sold her house in Quispamsis and moved to Fredericton, ending four years of commuting.

• Hand-picked Higgs officials living outside Fredericton cost taxpayers extra
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• Blaine Higgs hire unaware of social media ban on politically partisan posts

That move cost taxpayers a further $19,321.17 in relocation costs.  

Those included $15,000 for the real estate commission paid on the house Hurley sold, $3,550.67 for movers and $770.50 in legal fees.

According to the New Brunswick government's relocation policy, moving expenses for an existing employee are allowed at the discretion of a departmental deputy minister "if" the employee "is transferred."

Hurley was not transferred to a new job, and she did not take a loss on the sale of her home, which sometimes adds to relocation costs.

Real estate records show the house sold last October for $405,000, well above the listed asking price of $324,900.

Nevertheless, Macfarlane said it was determined Hurley did in fact qualify to have moving expenses covered and emphasized she did not approve her own claim. He declined to say who did.

"As outlined in the relocation policy, in no case can the Deputy Head authorize their own relocation expenses," wrote Macfarlane.

"Another designate approved the relocation expenses within the policy directive. Although we cannot talk about specific cases, the relocation expenses fell within the policy."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Robert Jones has been a reporter and producer with CBC New Brunswick since 1990. His investigative reports on petroleum pricing in New Brunswick won several regional and national awards and led to the adoption of price regulation in 2006.