Gaspé, Quebec, May 26, 2021 – Canadian economic development for the Quebec regions (CED)

Since the beginning of the crisis, tourism companies have demonstrated their resilience, patience, creativity and adaptability. These companies, which typically employ nearly two million people nationwide and have annual sales of around $ 100 billion, have been hit by the effects of the pandemic for over a year.

As the main driver of diversification and economic development, the tourism sector will play a key role in economic recovery. With the CED, the Canadian government renews its support for the industry and takes the lead with new investments in Quebec’s tourist attractions and facilities.

With this in mind, the Honorable Mélanie Joly, Minister for Economic Development and Official Languages ​​and Minister in charge of the CED, together with the Honorable Diane Lebouthillier, Member of Parliament for Gaspésie – Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Minister for National Revenue, gave a financial today $ 2.7M in support known to the City of Gaspé. This non-refundable contribution enables the city to purchase equipment, build infrastructure and implement a multimedia approach to promote the legacy of Rivière-au-Renard as the coastal fishing capital of Quebec.

The tourism industry plays a crucial economic, social and cultural role in the communities and is an essential part of regional economic development. The Canadian government has been by the side of the industry since the crisis began and has demonstrated its commitment to paving the way for the post-pandemic so that regions are ready to welcome tourists once the right conditions are in place.

Quotes

“We know the tourism industry has been hard hit by the pandemic and our government is determined to help the major players in the sector so that they are ready for a strong comeback after the crisis. We have been there with concrete action from the start of this unprecedented situation and will continue to be there to support tourism as the health situation evolves. The economic recovery of the Gaspésie region depends on the contribution of its tourism actors. We will always be there for our small businesses and the tourism industry in our regions. Thanks to you, we can recover stronger and more resilient. “

The honorable Mélanie Joly, MP for Ahuntsic-Cartierville, Minister for Economic Development and Official Languages ​​and Minister responsible for CED

“The funding from CED announced today underscores our promise to support the tourism industry and our commitment to businesses, organizations and Canadians through these troubled times. The financial contribution made to the City of Gaspé is excellent news for the Gaspésie region and its attractiveness. With the help of government investments in the tourism industry, we will be ready to welcome tourists from Quebec and around the world as soon as the situation permits.

The Honorable Diane Lebouthillier, MP for Gaspésie – Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine and Minister for National Revenue

Fast facts

  • The CED is the main federal partner for regional economic development in Quebec. With its 12 regional business offices, CED helps companies, support organizations and the regions of Quebec prepare for tomorrow’s economy.