This release was issued under a previous government.
“I am pleased to celebrate World Tourism Day by sharing good news about growth in Alberta’s dynamic and resilient tourism industry.
“Alberta’s reputation as a world renowned tourist destination continues to grow as Parks Canada’s visitation numbers show an increased number of travellers to our national parks, including a 15 per cent increase in visitation to Waterton Lakes National Park from January to July 2016, compared to the same period in 2015.
“Occupancy rates in the resort communities of Banff, Lake Louise, Kananaskis, Canmore and Jasper for July were 93.1 per cent, which is an increase over 2015. This is the highest rate since 2005, when Alberta Culture and Tourism began tracking occupancy in these resort communities.
“Tourism is one of the cornerstones of our Government’s commitment to diversify Alberta’s economy and create good-paying jobs. Our Government continues to make strategic investments through the Alberta Jobs Plan to help grow the tourism industry with programs like the Alberta Investor Tax Credit, Capital Investment Tax Credit and other regional development initiatives. We’re investing in world-class tourism infrastructure and facilities to create new and expanded tourism attractions, destinations and experiences.
“We’re working closely with airports, destination marketing organizations and industry associations to attract new tourists and enhance their experience in Alberta. And we’re working on tools to assist both municipalities and operators develop or enhance tourism in the province, such as the Tourism Entrepreneurship Program.
“Many of Alberta’s communities, parks and tourism experiences offer a variety of accessible services and facilities. Developing and promoting universally accessible points of interest is one of the many, practical ways to increase visitation across Alberta. “From hidden gems, unique destinations and one-of-a-kind experiences, tourism continues to play a pivotal role in our province’s economy.”