Benoit’s Cove – Western Newfoundland’s renowned vibrant autumn colours during this time of the year, combined with spectacular ocean and mountain scenery, numerous hiking and biking trails, and unique cultural and immersive experiences continue to draw visitors from around the world. The Government of Canada and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador are making significant investments to support projects that will further enhance the visitor experience in the region.
Federal and provincial investments boost region’s tourism potential
Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA, announced total federal investments of $1,075,973 for 10 tourism-related projects in western Newfoundland. The Province of Newfoundland and Labrador also announced a total contribution of $376,145 for these projects.
These investments will improve infrastructure and accessibility at tourism attractions in the region; assist with the cost of trail construction; support local cultural and art programs, including Indigenous traditions, music, and festivals; and enhance marketing strategies to attract more tourists to the region.
For the full list of projects, please see the Backgrounder.
Tourism and culture play a vital role in the economy and identity of Newfoundland and Labrador. Initiatives like these support local businesses, create jobs, and promote sustainable development in rural and urban areas alike. By celebrating and preserving the province’s cultural heritage, Newfoundland and Labrador fosters a deep sense of pride among its people, while showcasing its distinct history and traditions to a global audience.
Since the start of the pandemic, tourism organizations have demonstrated resilience, creativity and adaptability. They are vectors for diversification and major economic development, and the Government of Canada recognizes their contribution to economic development in Quebec’s regions.
That is why the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Member of Parliament for Gaspésie‒Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, is today announcing, on behalf of the Honourable Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for CED, a non‑repayable contribution of $1,541,750 for the MRC du Rocher-Percé to help initiate improvements to its air terminal, a tourism product in Rocher-Percé.
This CED support has enabled the regional county municipality (RCM) to proceed with work to expand, fit out and complete outdoor renovations and indoor leasehold improvements to offer a safe environment adapted to users and staff. By supporting this project, CED is not only contributing to local economic development, but also helping to strengthen the tourism sector in Rocher-Percé, to the benefit of the region’s businesses and organizations.
Founded in 1986, the Aéroport du Rocher-Percé, owned by the RCM, specializes in the transportation of people and goods by air. It serves the MRC du Rocher-Percé region, providing mainly medical transportation and business and tourism flights. This essential service plays a key role in regional economic development. The proposed improvements under this project will now enable the RCM to meet its tourism development targets aimed at attracting tourists to the region, including through the travel packages it offers.
The Government of Canada recognizes and supports businesses and organizations that are a source of pride in their communities. Quebec’s economic recovery relies, among other things, on a strong tourism industry with organizations that have deep roots in the regional economy. The players in this sector are major contributors to growth, as well as key assets in rebuilding a stronger, more resilient, greener and more just economy for all.