Minister of State Moore Launches Power of Tourism Video

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Feb. 4, 2011) - Today, the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism), launched the Power of Tourism, a new video developed by the Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC).

"The CTC is on the cutting edge of technology and has tapped into the social media sphere through Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr, as well as through a blog on their media site, all to entice more visitors to come to Canada," said Minister of State Moore. "Canada is better positioned now than ever before to compete for an increased share of the growing market of international travellers."

The Power of Tourism video will engage and rally members of the tourism industry and educate people outside the industry on the economic potential of tourism, so that they can better work together to support Canada's visitor economy.

"We see this video as a terrific business resource. It demonstrates that by aligning our efforts we can bring great results for Canadians. The potential is tremendous, and we all want to do our best to support tourism in Canada," said Michele McKenzie, President and CEO of the CTC.

From the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games to being granted Approved Destination Status by China, 2010 was a phenomenal year for our country. International awareness of Canada as a tourism destination has never been higher.

Minister of State Moore launched the Power of Tourism video as part of his remarks at Canada-e-Connect 2011 in Toronto. This event is the Tourism Industry Association of Canada's look into the online and web-based trends, tools and technologies that can help catalyze growth in the tourism sector.

Tourism makes a significant contribution to Canada's economy. It represents 2 percent of gross domestic product and 3.8 percent of employment, and involves all regions, both urban and rural, including Canada's North.

To view the Power of Tourism video, please visit the Canadian Tourism Commission's website (www.corporate.canada.travel).