WHEREAS visitors from foreign countries who purchase their travel from a registered travel company overseas receive a GST exemption from their accommodation provider with minimal bureaucracy; AND WHEREAS the proposed elimination of this overseas exemption will negatively impact Canadian tourism service providers, making them less attractive in the highly competitive marketing of worldwide tourism destinations: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM urge the federal Minister of Finance to consult with tourism operators to assess the impact of the new Foreign Convention and Tour Incentive Program.
SECRETARY OF STATE, SMALL BUSINESS AND TOURISM The Foreign Convention and Tour Incentive Program is aimed at promoting Canada as a choice destination for conferences and tour package travel. It is a more focused initiative than the Visitor Rebate Program, providing enhanced accountability. Indications are that it is proving to be an effective instrument in this regard. Although it is in its early days, Industry Canada and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada are monitoring the programs impact on our tourism industry. As Secretary of State Small Business and Tourism, I recognize the importance of tourism to Canadas economy and its contributions to our standard of living. I am working to further raise the tourism industry profile within the government by underscoring its importance to the growth of the Canadian economy.