Harper Government Supports Efforts to Promote Quebec Tourism on Outside Markets

CHAMBORD, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - April 19, 2012) - The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, announces that the financial agreements with Quebec's Associations touristiques régionales (ATR) and Associations touristiques sectorielles (ATS)-the province's regional and sectoral tourism associations-have just been renewed to March 31, 2015.

"By supporting the renewal of these agreements with Quebec's regional and sectoral tourism associations, the Government of Canada is showing its commitment to fostering the growth of a sector that yields substantial returns for the economy," says Minister Lebel.

The assistance will enable the associations to undertake promotional and marketing strategies showcasing Quebec's regional attractions with a view to drawing a greater number of visitors from out-of-province and international markets. The associations will use this financial support to, among other things, take part in trade fairs and tourism shows abroad, carry out promotional campaigns in specialty media outlets and organize press tours.

The tourism industry occupies a place of key importance in the Canadian economy, generating employment and spinoffs that further the vitality of communities in every region of the country. The three-year agreements are in line with the new Federal Tourism Strategy, whose goal is to promote Canada as a prime tourist destination.

Information:

This assistance, which totals nearly $30 million, was granted in the form of a non-repayable contribution through Canada Economic Development's Community Diversification program.

Keep up with the latest news from Canada Economic Development by visiting www.dec-ced.gc.ca or subscribing to @CanEconDev on Twitter.