The province has released a report identifying how to help the tourist sector rebound from the effects of the pandemic.
A Ministerial Task Force makes ten recommendations.
Chair Tim Hudak, a former tourism minister, supports incentives for Ontarians to travel more within the province.
“The travel incentive up to 20% is going to be a game-changer to encouraging longer stays, seeing more attractions and seeing more of our great province. It can be and will be the year of the staycation. The 20% tax credit will help do that,” says Hudak.
Hudak says they’re also suggesting a travel points or discount card.
Some of the recommendations include direct business support.
Hudak says they would like to see more regulatory changes that have already allowed for things like street-side patios and direct delivery of wine.
“They should keep those changes and go even further. The notion of all-inclusive packages, for example, will encourage more Ontarians to stay here and bring others in the province. (As well) to continue to modernize our alcohol laws or hospitality sector rules,” says Hudak.
Hudak says it first starts with messaging that it’s safe to travel.
“The government should use the exact same energy and effort to tell Ontarians, they told them to stay home during the pandemic, then, in turn, to tell them to get out and travel and enjoy this province and create new and lasting memories.”
Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, is supportive of the task force’s recommendations.
“As we look to the future, the recommendations and proposals presented in this report will play a vital role in helping our government develop a clear path forward to ensure the long-term recovery of Ontario’s tourism industry,” says McLeod.
The province is now reviewing the report to see how to put the recommendations into place.
