Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Last weekend our territorial parks were opened to the public in every region except Inuvik where those parks will open on June 1st. This kicks off the summer tourism season here in the Northwest Territories. We will also celebrate NWT Tourism Week from June 7 to 13. With these events taking place and with this being the last session until the fall, I think this is an appropriate time to highlight the importance of the tourism industry to our Territory.
That importance is demonstrated in dollars and cents. Last year tourism contributed $130.3 million to the Northwest Territories economy. It is also demonstrated by the fact that tourism is a sector that can be viable in all 33 of our communities. With the right idea, enthusiasm, and hard work, tourism can succeed almost anywhere.
The fact that tourism can be viable anywhere makes it an important contributor to the 16th Legislative Assembly’s goal of diversifying our economy and providing all regions and communities with opportunities and choices. In every corner of the Northwest Territories there are wonders to be seen and experienced that you won’t find anywhere else. These wonders provide business opportunities for our residents.
Tourism is also a renewable, sustainable business sector. It takes advantage of some of our greatest attributes: our people, our unique culture, our beautiful scenery, our wildlife, and our traditional arts and crafts. These attributes have staying power. We can depend on them year after year.
The Government of the Northwest Territories recognizes the importance of our tourism industry. That is why we are investing $5.5 million into the industry this coming fiscal year.
We are supporting the industry in both big and small ways. The big ways can be seen in our efforts to promote the Northwest Territories as a place to visit during the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics Games. It can also be seen in the programs like the Tourism Diversification and Marketing Program, which provides funding for Northwest Territories operators to enhance or expand their products and operations in this competitive and ever-evolving industry.
The Government of the Northwest Territories supports the tourism industry in many ways, including regional product development workshops and the Marine Safety Training courses. Last year these courses were delivered to 59 tourism operators and their guides. As well, we have provided assistance to improve infrastructure across the Territory such as the conference facility in Inuvik, airport signage and displays in the Sahtu.
Mr. Speaker, the success of our tourism industry relies on the success of our partnerships with tourism operators. The board and staff of Northwest Territories Tourism share with the Government of the Northwest Territories a commitment to the development of the industry and I would like to recognize this important and valued partner, which promotes the Northwest Territories through their marketing activities. We appreciate their ongoing engagement and commitment to keeping the tourism industry vibrant in the Northwest Territories.
Of course, no mention of our tourism industry would be complete without tipping our caps to the hardworking men and women who make up the Northwest Territories tourism industry. The determination and strength of these individuals have built our industry, and they are not only valued businesspeople, but also ambassadors of the Northwest Territories, bringing the warmth and wonder of our Territory to the world.
Mr. Speaker, as we enter what we hope will be another busy summer tourism season here in the Northwest Territories, I ask all the Members of this Assembly to join me in saluting our tourism industry and the men and women involved in it. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Mr. McLeod. The honourable Minister responsible for Municipal and Community Affairs, Mr. Robert McLeod.
