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The provincial government is putting its money behind the wine and food tourism industries in B.C.
During a keynote address at the close of the BC Tourism Industry Conference at the Delta Grand in Kelowna Friday, Tourism Minister Lisa Baera announced a $150,000 campaign to promote both industries.
The campaign, through Destination BC, will encourage B.C. residents to visit the province's wine country. It begins later this month.
"And, in May, another campaign launches to attract tourists from outside B.C. to our world-class wineries, restaurant and tourist adventures all over the province," said Beare.
"This is one of many initiatives our government is undertaking to support B.C. wine and B.C. wine tourism. Wine tourism will continue to thrive. B.C.'s wine industry will continue to thrive, and B.C. will continue to be a pristine, beautiful destination for Canadians and visitors from all around the world."
Beare took time to tout the government's initiatives around housing and child care which she says will assist the industry in attracting and retaining employees within the sector.
She added the government is committed to ensuring tourism provides "good jobs" for people all over the province.
The minister also hinted at a new "tourism strategy" set to be unveiled later this spring. It will focus on initiatives which she says will integrate our strengths in sports, arts and cultural events.
"We are going to expand tourism businesses in communities outside major centres. We are going to encourage more domestic travel, and ensure community tourism is accessible and affordable for B.C. families."
Beare also announced Friday the establishment of the Minister's Tourism Engagement Council.
The broad-based advisory group will represent a diverse range of industry groups from across the tourism sector.
"It will represent the diverse range of industry groups from all across the tourism sector. I want this council to have people, not only from large tourism operators, but to family-run B and B's, from guide outfitters to restaurant owners, from big cities to small remote communities," said Beare.
"This new council will provide me and my ministry with expert advice on tourism policy, and inform our tourism strategy development and implementation. It will identify opportunities for public, industry and community engagement."
