On November 21st, “Tourism Day” on Parliament Hill, Bruce Stanton, Member of Parliament for Simcoe North, rose in the House of Commons to recognize visiting representatives of the tourism industry:

From Hansard:

Mr. Speaker, today we have representatives of the tourism industry here on Parliament Hill meeting with members of all political parties. As someone who has earned a living in this industry, I can certainly vouch for the importance of their message. Tourism accounts for 2.1% of our GDP. It employs 1.6 million Canadians, about 10% of our national workforce.

About 80% of tourism businesses are small and medium size enterprises. I am sure every member of the House knows of a lodging business, a transport company, or a natural, cultural or historical attraction bringing many visitors to their riding.

And Mr. Speaker Canada is part of a global tourism industry, with new and exciting destinations coming online each year. That is why it is important to maintain and hopefully grow Canada's share of the tourism trade, just like Canada's other important export industries.

I ask all hon. members to join me in welcoming the women and men who showcase this beautiful country the world over, Canada's tourism industry.

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Tourism is a major economic contributor to Simcoe North accounting for approximately 30% of our local economy. We are blessed with a number of major tourist attractions including, but not limited to, Martyrs Shrine, Ste. Marie Among The Hurons, Discovery Harbour, the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre, the Leacock Museum, the Trent Severn Waterway and Casino Rama. Our winter and summer sports venues; festivals, museums and theatres; and wealth of accommodation choices make our area an attractive destination for visitors from near and far.