Government of Canada invests to accelerate growth and maximize tourism opportunities in Northern Ontario

Tourism is an inclusive sector that showcases Canada’s culture, diversity, natural beauty and unique experiences to the world. It delivers economic benefits across the country by supporting one in ten jobs. That’s why the Government of Canada is investing in our tourism sector’s businesses and assets.

Today, Marc Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie, announced funding of nearly $31,000 to support the Municipality of Killarney’s bicentennial celebrations. The funding will enable the Municipality to market and promote its bicentennial activities in and outside of Northern Ontario.

This investment is being made through the Canadian Experiences Fund (CEF), which supports Canadian businesses and organizations seeking to create, improve or enhance tourism products, facilities and experiences. FedNor is delivering CEF in Northern Ontario.

MP Serré announced an additional investment of $30,700 on behalf of the Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism, to support the bicentennial events. This funding, provided through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program, will support the programming for Killarney’s celebration, including activities such as a wharf party, a tea and fashion show, historical tours, storytelling, performances of live music and much more.

Quotes

“These investments will enable communities and businesses in all regions of the country to develop tourism products and experiences to attract more tourists year-round. This will help communities big and small reap the benefits of the global tourism boom to diversify their economies and create good jobs for middle-class families while showcasing Canada’s brand, centred on shared values of diversity and equality.”
-The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie

“Innovation doesn’t only happen in big cities; it happens in all regions of Canada. That’s why our regional development agencies play an important role in helping businesses turn innovation into economic growth and good jobs for Canadians. Through the Canadian Experiences Fund, our government is investing in the development of our tourism sector and the economic potential of our vibrant communities.”
-The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor.

“Investments in arts and culture help build strong communities. We are proud to support the Killarney/Shebahonaning bicentennial celebrations to help bring its community together to celebrate local arts and heritage. This funding is part of our government’s commitment to promote our artists and artisans and ensure that Canadians get opportunities to learn about and experience the heritage in their communities.
-The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism

“Investing in the Killarney/Shebahonaning bicentennial celebrations is just another example of how our government supports communities in their efforts to capitalize on tourism opportunities. Celebrations like this one help to promote our region, fuel the local economy and create good paying, middle class jobs for residents.”
-Marc Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt

“We are thrilled the Government of Canada, through FedNor, is investing in our bicentennial celebrations and supporting the region’s long-term economic benefits. We look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors to our beautiful North Channel community, and showing them what Killarney has to offer.
-Virginia Rook, Mayor, Municipality of Killarney

Quick facts

• Starting with an official opening ceremony on December 31, 2019, the Municipality of Killarney will host a range of activities in 2020 to celebrate its bicentennial, including an eight-day summer festival and a fishing tournament in partnership with the Top 50 Pike Series Tournament Trail. The series of events is expected to attract many additional visitors to the area.
• This announcement takes place in support of Minister Joly’s recent announcement of a new tourism strategy: Creating Middle Class Jobs: A Federal Tourism Growth Strategy. The Strategy, which was developed based on feedback from Canadians and the work of the Advisory Council on Jobs and the Visitor Economy, highlights the importance of Canada’s tourism sector as an economic driver for communities across the country.
• Tourism represents more than 2% of Canada’s gross domestic product and supports more than 1.8 million jobs in Canada.

Related Links

• Guidelines on the Canadian Experiences Fund in Northern Ontario
• To find out more about our programs and services, please visit: fednor.gc.ca.
• Follow us on Twitter: @FedNor.
• Follow Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on Twitter: @ISED_CA

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Contact

Kaylie Dudgeon
Special Assistant
MP Nickel Belt, Marc Serré
[email protected]
705-897-2222

Carol Deguire
Communications Officer
FedNor
705-626-6119
[email protected]