Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, this is National Tourism Awareness Week in Canada, a week aimed at raising awareness of the tremendous economic, cultural and social benefits provided by this sector to all Canadians.
In the Northwest Territories, tourism is a $100 million industry. That is the amount spent by the over 61,000 visitors to our territory every year.
Mr. Speaker, tourism dollars are new dollars to our economy and flow into our communities through our many valued tourism operators and outfitters. Along the way, this benefits NWT residents and businesses working in areas such as the transportation and accommodation sectors, retail and food outlets, recreation and entertainment industries.
The Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment is working in partnership with Northwest Territories Tourism on a number of initiatives to mark this week and to celebrate tourism in the Northwest Territories.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to seek unanimous consent to conclude all Ministers' statements filed with the Clerk for delivery today.