Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation
By Naomi Yamamoto
Minister of State for Tourism and Small Business
June 28, 2013
VICTORIA - This week, our government has been carefully monitoring high river levels in south eastern British Columbia. We've all watched as our neighbours in Alberta have struggled through one of the worst floods in their history - one that has displaced families, closed businesses and was cause for alarm in the weeks leading up to the Calgary Stampede, one of Canada's premiere tourism events.
It's natural of course, for British Columbia's travellers and business owners, particularly in the tourism sector, to feel some concern that their plans, or operations, could be similarly impacted here.
I'm pleased to report that at this time, B.C. is open for business and welcoming tourists in every corner of the province, especially in our spectacularly beautiful Kootenay Rockies region.
Tourism is a vital part of our vision for a strong economy. B.C.'s tourism industry contributes more to our GDP than any of our resource industries. 90 per cent of tourism businesses are small businesses, and small businesses employ over half of all British Columbians working in the private sector. In short, a robust tourism sector means family-supporting jobs in every part of the province.
The Canada Day long weekend is a fantastic opportunity for British Columbians to explore the vast diversity our province has to offer. From the wild beauty of our coast, to the big sky of our north and of course, to the rugged charm of our south east, B.C. truly has something for everyone.
Whether it's riding horseback at a guest ranch in the Interior, houseboating on Shuswap Lake, fishing for salmon in Haida Gwaii or soaking in hot springs in the Kootenays, small business owners all around B.C. have exhilarating tourism experiences to offer. To all British Columbians considering a journey this summer - I strongly encourage you to take that journey in your own province. For travel ideas and planning tools, visit:
