Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am very supportive of this motion. The tourism industry in the Northwest Territories is the second largest industry, not counting government. They are the creators of a lot of quality jobs, both seasonal and full time jobs throughout the territory. In the western part of the territories alone, tourism contributes 500 jobs. They contribute $16 million in labour income, $21 million in tax revenues, and $75 million in total contributions to the GDP. I feel by cutting funding to these particular organizations, we are taking away from the very people that can contribute to our economy. Since the federal ADA program has been cut, this particular industry has seen some $330,000 removed. They need assistance and they need help. If they do not have the opportunity for funding to go to international trade shows, consumer shows and to do tourism training, then in effect it is the people throughout the territories that are going to be suffering out of this. My position is, Mr. Chairman, I think it is very important funding in this area be reinstated. Thank you.
Jake Ootes on Committee Motion 27-13(4): Recommendation To Return Funding For The NWT Arctic Tourism Association To Historical Levels
In the Legislative Assembly on February 26th, 1997. See this statement in context.
Committee Motion 27-13(4): Recommendation To Return Funding For The NWT Arctic Tourism Association To Historical Levels
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
February 26th, 1997
Page 914
See context to find out what was said next.