Mr. Chairman, the Member's point that we need to be able to account for results is a good one. I don't have the exact number of artisans who have gone online and are a part of this database. I am thinking it's in the neighbourhood of 30 to 40. Members will remember, though, that we made the conscious decision some years back to no longer sell these goods on behalf of artisans. So we don't go out in communities and pay for these goods, bring them in and warehouse them and try to sell them anymore. What we do hope to do is set up this database so people who are interested in purchasing these goods can go online and find the contact information for the artisans. Anecdotally, the department tells me that most of the artists are very happy with the way this is working. It's generating interest, generating calls and generating orders. How much, I am not sure we have that exact information, but I can ask. The one thing they have pointed to as a shortcoming or weakness is the fact that we haven't had this branding program, this logo and the associated labelling and tags that would go with that. That's going to be important for this to be more successful on store shelves and to be able to differentiate it from the other arts and crafts from other regions. I think we need that branding, that promotion. So the website is a good start. It's a good piece, but we need to do more. I think the more focus on the brand in the future should stand us in good stead. .Again, I take the Member's point that we need to ensure that we are measuring for results and know what kind of an impact this is having. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Brendan Bell on Committee Motion 47-15(5): Increased Investment In Tourism, Carried
In the Legislative Assembly on March 5th, 2007. See this statement in context.
Committee Motion 47-15(5): Increased Investment In Tourism, Carried
Item 19: Consideration In Committee Of The Whole Of Bills And Other Matters
March 5th, 2007
Page 1189
See context to find out what was said next.