August 14, 2019 - Gander, NL- Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
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, Scott Simms, Member of Parliament for Coast of Bays - Central - Notre Dame, announced funding of $102,000 to support the Town of Gander, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Gander, as they implement phase three of the re-development of Cobb's Pond. 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. This announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Tourism, Official Languages and La Francophonie.
Thanks to our government's support for projects like the Cobb's Pond re-development, Canadians and visitors to Canada will be able to experience recreational tourism. The Cobb's Pond walking trail extension will provide residents and visitors with the unique opportunity to walk out to a central viewing point on the water.
This announcement takes place in the wake of Minister Joly's announcement of the 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.
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 CEF, 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
"I'm delighted that our government is supporting the Town of Gander as it continues to improve and re-develop Cobb's Pond and its popular walking trail, helping to further enhance the area's local recreational amenities for residents and tourists alike. Gander has seen a steady increase in its tourism industry in recent years, partly attributable to the great success of the Broadway musical "Come From Away," as visitors want to see firsthand the special place where this story originated. Cobb's Pond is a major outdoor venue for the area, offering recreational, community infrastructure and tourism opportunities for the Town of Gander. I look forward to seeing the finished product and the opportunities it creates for the town in years to come."
- Scott Simms, Member of Parliament for Coast of Bays-Central-Notre Dame
"Cobb's Pond Rotary Park is a recreational hub for the Town of Gander and is used daily, by many. Our Council is appreciative of the Federal Government's support, as we continue to re-develop the park, to improve residents' and visitors' experiences and attract more tourists. With our tourism industry growing rapidly, we are grateful for programs like the Canadian Experiences Fund that allow us to meet the demands and expectations of both our residents and visitors. The trail extension will be a great addition to our beautiful park and we are excited to see the finished product."
- Tara Pollett, Deputy Mayor, Town of Gander
Quick facts
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Tourism represents more than 2% of the total value of goods produced and services provided in Canada.
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Tourism supports more than 1.8 million jobs in Canada.
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Regional development agencies are one of Canada's four flagship platforms supporting innovation, along with the Industrial Research Assistance Program, the Strategic Innovation Fund and the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service.
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Canada has six regional development agencies supporting economic development in every region of Canada.
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The Rotary Club of Gander has raised $68,000 from industry to support phase three of the Cobb's Pond re-development.
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The Town of Gander is the regional hub for 96 small communities and 46,000 residents in the immediate area and on the northeast coast of the island of Newfoundland.
