August 9, 2024

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CEO MESSAGE

I recall being in a meeting with a cabinet minister several years ago and she asked me who my local MLA was. I drew a blank and stared at her without expression because I couldn’t think of his name. Eventually it came to me but not before being somewhat embarrassed at the momentary memory lapse.

To be fair, politicians come and go every three or four years depending on which level of government. However, keeping track of MLAs and MPs, who’s in cabinet or on council, not to mention which party or riding they represent, is essential for advocacy organizations like TIABC given that knowing the players is paramount to achieving results.

The political landscape is about to shift in British Columbia come October when residents go to the polls to elect a new government. Four parties are fielding the bulk of candidates – NDP, BC United, the Conservatives, and the Green Party. Even though the writ has yet to be dropped, electioneering has been underway for months.

In recent weeks we’ve seen politicians switch parties or announce they’re not running again. Some key members of Cabinet including Transportation Minister Rob Fleming, Forests Minister Bruce Ralston, Labour Minister Harry Bains, Indigenous Relations Minister Murray Rankin, Finance Minister Katrine Conroy, and Environment Minister George Heyman are all stepping aside, along with well over a dozen other MLAs from three of the four aforementioned parties. It goes without saying that our provincial government will look decidedly different in the coming months no matter who takes the helm.

In the lead-up to the last election, TIABC and some of our key sector partners – ABLE BC, Restaurants Canada, BCHA – produced an election toolkit to help our members draw attention to important tourism and hospitality issues for candidates to address as part of the campaign.

As you recall, COVID was at its peak in 2020. Industry-wide revenue was down an average of 69% and in some sectors as much as 95%; hotel occupancy plummeted by an average of 55%; 50,000 employees lost their jobs; and businesses were incurring major debt with each passing month.

Issues such as relief measures for tourism businesses, prohibitions on large gatherings, wholesale pricing for liquor licensees, rebuilding a skilled workforce, support for festivals and events, investment in infrastructure, and many others were all referenced in the form of questions for candidates as part of our 2020 election toolkit.

Although we’ve made huge progress on the advocacy front and many of the challenges that COVID caused have been addressed, there remain some issues that need to be resolved going forward to allow the tourism sector to continue to grow and prosper.

For example, in the 2024 election toolkit currently in development, I anticipate including the following questions for candidates leftover from 2020:

A). Would your government consider compensating adventure tourism operators that are displaced from their tenures on crown land due to government priorities that favour other users?

B). How will your government maintain and/or further develop the province’s transportation infrastructure to ensure safe, cost-efficient and convenient access to all regions?

C). What will your government do to encourage further tourism and hospitality product development and investment to ensure new, export-ready experiences for visitors to all regions of BC?

D). How would your government help BC’s tourism and hospitality industry build a skilled workforce for the future?

E). What will your government do to build and strengthen tourism and hospitality programs in BC’s post-secondary institutions?

To be sure, there are many other issues and questions to be included in the 2024 version of the toolkit which we aim to introduce next month before the writ is dropped. In the meantime, if you’d like to offer some suggestions on what tourism priorities candidates should speak to, I’m all ears. Please drop me a line at your earliest convenience.

I keep a little cheat sheet on my office wall that I picked up at the Legislature which shows the MLAs for each riding, as well as cabinet ministers and their respective portfolios. On it I’ve put a big yellow circle around my local MLA. Heaven forbid I forget who it is again…although I may need to memorize a new name come October 19th.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

New Measures to Address Fraud in Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program Announced

Earlier this week, Minister Randy Boissonnault, the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, held a meeting with representatives from Canada’s largest business associations to announce new actions the government and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) are taking to prevent fraud in the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) Program. Minister Boissonnault emphasized that businesses should use the TFW Program only when they can't find qualified workers in Canada.

Here are some of the key measures ESDC will implement:

• Enforcing the 20% cap: There will be a strict enforcement of the rule that limits temporary foreign workers to 20% of a company’s workforce.
• Stricter Oversight: ESDC will apply tougher oversight in high-risk areas when approving Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) and during inspections.
• Potential LMIA Fee Increases: The government is considering increasing fees for LMIAs to cover the costs of better integrity checks and processing.
• Employer Eligibility Rules: Future regulations might require employers to have been in business for a certain number of years or limit companies with a history of layoffs from using the TFW Program.

Minister Boissonnault is also considering stopping the processing of applications under the low-wage stream in certain areas and industries. If adopted, this would prevent some employers from using the TFW Program.

For more information, read the official news release HERE.

Restaurants Canada Aligned with Proposed Changes to TFW Program 

Restaurants Canada has announced they support the Federal Government’s announcement that it is considering new regulations aimed at enhancing the integrity of the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) program and is seeking long-term solutions to address the labour shortage (as noted in story above).

The restaurant industry was devastated during the pandemic with many workers leaving due to the uncertainty of steady employment. The use of the TFW program was necessary to allow the industry to reopen and recover following the lifting of public health restrictions. As a result, the percentage of the restaurant industry’s workforce made up of TFWs increased from 1% pre-Covid to 3% post-Covid (made up primarily of cooks and supervisors). Restaurants Canada is expecting use of the program to continue to steadily decline over the next year. 

Today, the foodservice industry has 73,000 job vacancies, but the focus now is on longer-term solutions, specifically providing opportunities for newcomers such as refugees and asylum seekers to fill the gaps permanently. There are currently more than 1 million of these individuals without work in Canada.

For more information, read the full news release HERE.

CCRVA Seek Support to Bill C-410

MP Lianne Rood has introduced a Private Members' Bill C-410 "An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (campgrounds)" in the House of Commons, and it received approval to move to second reading.

As the Canadian Camping and RV Association (CCRVA) continue to drive forward with efforts to support Bill C-410, your active participation remains essential. This Private Members' Bill, pivotal for amending the Income Tax Act to recognize campgrounds as active businesses, is a cornerstone of the strategy to foster a fair tax environment conducive to the growth of their industry.

Immediate Action You Can Take: Please VISIT HERE to learn more and download the CCRVA advocacy toolkit and begin engaging with your MPs today. Your involvement is key to their success.

TIABC CEO Speaks to Impact of Wildfires to Industry

In an interview with the Canadian Press last week, TIABC CEO Walt Judas noted that wildfires have had a significant impact on BC's visitor economy this year.

Read the full story HERE.

ICYMI | Episode 27 - Craig Murray

Meet Craig Murray, owner of Nimmo Bay Resort as he joins TIABC's Voice of Tourism host Walt Judas to discuss his career path, his work in sustainable tourism, and what challenges business owners and operators face in the province today.

BCLCA Summer Reservations Poll Results

The BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) recently asked members how business is this year. Thirty-two members completed the survey. Here is a summary of the results collected to July 30th.

Question: Is your projected reservation business (e.g. bookings) for the months of July, August and September up, down, or the same compared to the same period in 2023?

• Up - 7 properties or 21%
• Down - 15 properties or 46%
• Same - 10 properties or 31%

Air Canada | Future Leader's Contest

Air Canada, in partnership with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, invites applications for the Air Canada Future Tourism Leaders Contest. Eligible applicants are Canadian students who have made significant contributions to Canada’s vibrant and professional tourism industry.

Up to four (4) students will receive one (1) complimentary registration to TIAC’s Tourism Congress (December 4 & 5), two (2) nights of hotel accommodations at the official Congress hotel (check-in: Wednesday, December 4: check out: Friday, December 6), and round-trip airfare covered by Air Canada (Economy Class).

During the Tourism Congress, winners will be presented with special recognition for their achievements. Eligible students must reside in Canada and be enrolled full-time at an accredited Canadian college or university in a travel/tourism/hospitality or related program. Proof of enrolment is required.

Submission deadline: October 9, 2024. Learn more and nominate HERE.

BC Rivers Day Micro-Grants Funding Opportunity from ORCBC

The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) is offering a limited number of small, one-time micro grants of $300 each to help outdoor groups host BC Rivers Day events in their community.

BC Rivers Day is an annual celebration held on the fourth Sunday of September to promote the importance of British Columbia's rivers and watersheds. It was established in 1980 by ORCBC and outdoor enthusiast and river conservationist Mark Angelo. 

Applications are open until August 18th at 11:59 pm. Learn more about the program and apply for the program HERE.

Attention New Indigenous BC Business Ventures

Are you an Indigenous BC resident with a new or existing business? I-Cedar is a fully funded online tourism and hospitality entrepreneurship program and is now accepting applications from Indigenous BC residents with a new, existing, or ready to launch business venture.

The I-CEDAR program is not just any program—it's a transformative journey that empowers Indigenous Artists, Carvers, Creators, Performers, Storytellers, and Entrepreneurs in the tourism and hospitality sector. It's fully funded for 14 weeks!

The application deadline is August 11, 2024. Find details about this program HERE.

Job Opportunities | ITBC

Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) is hiring four Regional Indigenous Tourism Specialists: (1) Vancouver Island, (2) Thompson Okanagan / Kootenay Rockies, (3) Northwest, and (4) Cariboo Chilcotin Coast.

The Regional Indigenous Tourism Specialist is to support the advancement of Indigenous tourism by providing responsible and respectful regional-specific support through meaningful engagement with local communities and tourism partners. The Regional Indigenous Tourism Specialist connects entrepreneurs, businesses, and communities to opportunities, programs, and resources for a thriving Indigenous tourism economy.

Learn more about the opportunities and apply HERE.

Job Opportunity | Tourism Fernie

Tourism Fernie is looking for a creative, experienced and passionate Social Media & Content Coordinator to help plan, execute and evolve its digital presence and success through inspiring branded content and storytelling, coordinating website content, and supporting a variety of other marketing and destination projects as part of their amazing team.

The successful candidate will be highly organized, a great communicator, have a professional presence, and is comfortable working independently and within a team.

Learn more about the opportunity and apply HERE.

Supporting Communities Along

Highways 5 & 16

The communities along Highways 5 and 16 want to encourage everyone to hit the open road! Now’s the perfect time to travel in British Columbia with less traffic than usual along Highway 5 and 16 corridors. Discover these amazing stops between Kamloops and Prince George for an unforgettable summer road trip!

• #KnowBeforeYouGo – check Drive BC for updates on highway conditions and BC Wildfire for the latest forest fire activity in the area.

• Visit Thompson Okanagan’s Know Before You Go page when travelling through the region.

You are also encouraged to SHARE THIS VIDEO.

New Video Aims to Strengthen Relationships Between Visitors and First Nations

As a follow-up action from the Marine Plan Partnership’s tourism workshop last fall, a short video has been created by the Nanwakolas Council in partnership with the Marine Planning Partnership (MaPP).

Sharing this video is an important first step to implement recommendations from the workshop and strengthen relationships between visitors and local First Nations.

In the video, individuals from the Nanwakolas member First Nations and others explain the importance, when travelling in their territories, of respecting the territories, the archaeological sites within them, and the relationship they have with every part of their lands and waters. It is a compelling, helpful and short guide to what that respect looks like and why it matters.

Respectful behaviour enriches a visit to the territories, adds to a better understanding of the environment and of First Nations, and enhances cultural, physical and recreational safety.

• Watch the video HERE.
• If you’re interested to learn more you can find more information on the MaPP website HERE.

New Accessible Viewing Platform at Helmcken Falls

Tourism Wells Gray has announced the opening of a new fully accessible viewing platform at Helmcken Falls, enhancing the park’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. This significant upgrade ensures that visitors of all abilities can experience the breathtaking beauty of one of Canada’s most iconic waterfalls.

The new viewing platform is designed with accessibility at its core, equipped to cater to all visitors. Key features include fully accessible washrooms, resurfaced paths leading from the parking lot to the viewing platforms, and new picnic tables and benches with ample space for mobility aids, strategically located to offer a seamless journey to the viewing platform.

Despite recent wildfires affecting some backcountry areas, Wells Gray Provincial Park remains open and operational. Read the full announcement HERE.

Explore the Westshore Flavour Trails

Go on a self-guided culinary journey through barns, beaches & beyond, and explore the Westshore Flavour Trails.

Taste your way through the Westshore communities of Langford, Metchosin, and Sooke. Meet the producers, makers, and chefs who bring Greater Victoria's west coast palate to life.

This flavourful introduction is bound to inspire, as you explore the region one bite at a time. Discover the Flavour Trail HERE.

Would you like your image to appear in our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Contact deborah@tiabc.ca

Seeds Consulting Inc.

Owner and Principal Advisor Diana Mulvey initiated Seeds Consulting Inc. in 2007, with the business tag line Embedding consciousness into corporate growth. Much of her work includes facilitating meetings and workshops designed to invite diverse perspectives, harness creativity and capture the wisdom in the room. 

Learn more about Seeds Consulting Inc. HERE.

Would you like to be featured in our weekly Voice of Tourism, social channels or on our website? TIABC member testimonials provide visibility and exposure to the tourism industry and a wider audience for your business. Contact Deborah - deborah@tiabc.ca

Become a Member in 2024

Your Membership is Important to Us!

We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC in 2024 to support our important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.

TIABC continues to identify your concerns, raise your voice, champion your needs, and push for support and programs while encouraging policy changes at both the provincial and federal level.

Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.

TIAC's Associate Program for TIABC Members

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) continue to offer TIABC members an opportunity to extend their membership. TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.

By visiting this link, you can become a TIAC Associate Member, enjoy access to a range of TIAC benefits and add your voice to National efforts.

Note: If you are already a TIAC associate member, you will receive a renewal notice before your anniversary date. If you are currently a full TIAC member, you already get enhanced advantages. You will continue to enjoy added benefits and savings over and above what is available to associate members, including the TIAC Member Advantage program at Rendez-vous Canada.

Camping Appreciation Weekend

The weekend of September 6-8 is Camping Appreciation Weekend, when many Canadian campgrounds coast-to-coast say thank you to campers for their patronage.

The weekend is organized and sponsored by the Canadian Camping and RV Association and supported by the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association to:

Say thanks to those that enjoy the camping and RVing lifestyle, and, to raise funds for Care Camps, to send children with cancer to specialized oncology camps.

Learn more HERE.

SOS Coalition Announces

"Communities Driving Change" Forum

With crime, violence and street disorder plaguing communities large and small across British Columbia, BC’s Save Our Streets coalition (SOS) has announced it will hold a day-long “Communities Driving Change” Forum.

Date: September 12

Location: Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, Vancouver

The Forum will explore solutions to these issues with community and business leaders, subject experts and political leaders.

The Forum, which is being held in the lead-up to the provincial election, and a week before the annual Union of BC Municipalities Convention, will feature moderated panel discussions, keynote expert speakers, and opportunities for virtual community participation from around the province. Topics to include judicial reform and resources, policing, addictions and mental illnesses, and the role of housing as components of the solution.

The speaker invitation process is currently underway with panelists and keynote speakers to be announced in the coming weeks.

Read the official news release and learn more about the SOS initiative HERE.

Skip the Lottery | Tickets Now On Sale

You and your friends are invited to join together in Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country for the 2025 Half Corked Marathon, taking place on May 31, 2025, with the opportunity to Skip The Lottery and get your ticket now! 

Very limited number of tickets available, this is your only chance to get your tickets without entering the lottery. These tickets are available at 2024 pricing at $275 each plus tax.

Gather your friends, family and colleagues and share the news! Tickets are available until SOLD OUT. Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.

Destination Canada Launches

Webinar Series

Destination Canada is excited to be back for the second year with the Destination Dialogues webinar series.

Date: September 12

Time: 8:30 am to 10 am (PT)

This free 90-minute online session will describe how destinations, organizations, businesses, and individuals can create compelling storytelling-based experiences in rural areas.

This webinar is open to everyone, in Canada, and is designed to inspire, inform and foster innovation amongst communities. Many smaller rural regions lack the resources and budget to send staff to industry conferences, so this opportunity is to provide them with a comprehensive and valuable learning opportunity online.

If you are interested in joining, you can find more about the event and register through the link below.

BCTCRI Workshop #4: Climate Resilience & Indigenous Knowledge

Registration for workshop #4 in the BC Tourism Climate Resiliency Initiative program is now available. In this workshop, explore the intersection of climate resilience and Indigenous knowledge. This session will look into the invaluable wisdom and practices that Indigenous communities have developed to adapt and respond to environmental challenges.

Date: September 18th

Time: 10:00 am (PT)

Registration now available HERE.

2024 Go Fish BC Photo Contest

The Go Fish BC Photo Contest is now open.

Categories

• BC Fishing Landscapes 
• Fishing Buddies
• Fishing Firsts

First and second place prizes will be awarded for each category.

1st prize: $300

2nd prize: $150

Additionally, there will be a random draw from all submitted entries on July 26, August 9, August 23, and September 6. Random-draw winners will receive a Go Fish BC prize pack, including a cap, drink tumbler, and stickers.

How to Enter

Complete this entry form, upload your best freshwater fishing images, and click submit. It’s that easy! Contest closes September 16th.

Burnaby Blues & Roots Festival

The festival providing six hours of incredible live music and entertainment. Deer Lake Park, known for its natural beauty and serene setting, offers the perfect backdrop for this celebrated event.

Date: August 10

Time: 4:00 - 10:00 pm

Location: Deer Lake Festival Lawn, 6450 Deer Lake Ave.,

Learn more HERE.

2024 BCHF Golf Tournament

Registration is now open for the 2024 BC Hospitality Foundation golf tournament in Victoria.

Date: August 21

Location: Olympic Golf Club

Learn more and register HERE.

ELEVATE | In Support of

Canucks Autism Network

Get ready to soar to new heights at this exclusive fundraising event in support of Canucks Autism Network!

This year, ELEVATE features an aviation-themed evening of mingling and music, drinks and dancing, and thrilling helicopter rides courtesy of SKY Helicopters. Dress in “aviation casual” and walk the red carpet into SKY hangar, a 6,000 square foot space where you will be engrossed by music, ambiance, and thoughtful decor – perfect for mixing and mingling. 

Date: August 26

Reserve your tickets HERE and prepare for an unforgettable night

Tickets Now On Sale | 2024 Wine Capital Weekend

Oliver Tourism Association and the Wine Capital Weekend Organizing Committee is thrilled to announce that tickets for the 2024 Wine Capital Weekend are now on sale!

Set in the picturesque town of Oliver, from September 20 - 22, this extraordinary weekend promises to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with world-class wines, craft beers, ciders, spirits, delectable food, and exciting entertainment.

Learn more and purchase your tickets HERE.

Annual Tourism Summit & AGM

What to Expect at the 2024 Tourism Summit - As an attendee you will have access to a range of networking opportunities, the chance to pick up invaluable insights from industry experts, and time to connect with the tourism community. 

Date: October 15-17

Location: Bella Coola

Registration, room rates and agenda will be posted soon.

Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration 2024

At the annual Silver Wings Industry and Scholarship Awards Celebration, the BCAC recognizes aviation and aerospace industry colleagues for specific achievements. As well, they disburse almost $150,000 through their Scholarship Awards Program to hard-working students enrolled in aviation and/or aerospace programs in British Columbia.

Date: October 18

Time: 5:45 pm - 10:00 pm PT

Registration is now open - learn more and register HERE.

Note: Prior to the Silver Wings event, they are also hosting the third annual "Chair’s Women in Aviation and Aerospace Reception” (CWAAR), also at the Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC).

For more information and registration HERE.

Save the Date | NBC Tourism Summit

The Northern BC Tourism Summit is back for 2024! It will be the first time the summit has happened since 2019 and will bring together industry experts, travel enthusiasts, and local businesses to discuss the latest trends, strategies, and opportunities in Northern BC's tourism sector.

Dates: October 22-24

Location: Ramada Hotel, Prince George

Registration is now open - learn more and register HERE.

Save the Date | Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association AGM

The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association will be holding it's 47th Annual General Meeting & Tourism Industry Conference.

Dates: October 23-24

Location: Prestige Lakeside Resort, Nelson

Mark your calendar! Program details to follow!

TOTA AGM and Summit

Early bird registration is now open for the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association AGM & Summit.

Dates: October 29-30

Location: Vernon

Hosted in partnership with Tourism Vernon and Destination Silver Star. Early bird pricing for the Summit is available until August 2nd. 

Mark your calendar, learn more and register HERE.

Annual Lodging & Camping Ideas Forum

The Ideas Forum is designed to provide BC Lodging and Campground Association members and guests with an inexpensive learning opportunity thanks to our sponsors and suppliers. It’s a chance to network with the sponsors, suppliers, fellow members and meet the volunteer board of directors. This is where ideas are discussed, knowledge is shared, and members’ questions answered!

Dates: November 4-6

Location: Manning Park Resort

Registration and agenda to be available August, 2024.

Save the Date - 2024 Policy Conference & Big Splash Gala

The Sport Fishing Institute of BC (SFI) will hold its annual Policy Conference. This year's theme is Selective and Sustainable. This is a highly anticipated forum where elected officials, public servants and those in the sport fishing industry can meet, share their perspectives on the issues facing the recreational fishery and discuss expectations for the coming seasons. As last year, SFI will be providing the Pacific Salmon Foundation a portion of the day to share details about programs and projects that are funded by revenues generated from sales of the Salmon Conservation stamp on your tidal waters licence.

Date: November 29

Location: Vancouver Convention Centre

Following the Conference is the Big Splash Gala and Fundraiser.

Much more information to come on each event, ticket sales will begin in September.

Tourism Congress 2024

Join the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) in beautiful Vancouver for an immersive conference experience that brings together tourism leaders, stakeholders, and innovators from across Canada and beyond. Get ready to share insights, explore new ideas, and celebrate our industry's resilience and creativity. We are thrilled the Tourism Congress is hitting the road this year.

Dates: December 3-5

Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre

Learn more about Tourism Congress including group booking opportunities HERE.

Save The Date

The 8th Annual IMPACT Sustainable Tourism & Travel Summit will be held again in Victoria.

Day of Impact: January 26, 2025

Dates of Conference: January 27-29, 2025

Details to the conference including registration, accommodation and travel information will soon follow.