In Cambridge, tourism is an important part of our economic development. The recent decision by Mr. Goodyear’s Conservative government to not participate in this years World Expo in Asia, and to slash millions in tourism funding, is an example of the damaging effect his government is placing on local tourism jobs. Jobs like those seen at African Lion Safari, the Grand River Conservation Authority and the Wings of Paradise. Jobs that relate to local hotel staff, as well as local merchants located throughout the city.
The number of international tourists visiting Canada has already decreased 15% over the last 6 years, and the federal governments response is to pass up opportunities to showcase Canada? The previous Worlds Fair saw 6.5 million people visiting the Canada Pavilion, people that would love the tourist experience that Cambridge has to offer.
In addition, the federal government is slashing the budget of the Canadian Tourism Commission by 20%. That’s a $14-million cut for the agency, which promotes Canada as a travel destination to the World.
If we want to attract investment, businesses, and tourists to Canada that help create local jobs, then we need to be at events like Expo 2012, selling Canada to the world. Mr. Goodyear, please stand up for our local tourism industry and be a voice in Ottawa.
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