YELLOWKNIFE (May 14, 2012) -- National Tourism Week highlights the economic contribution of the tourism sector across Canada. In the Northwest Territories, tourism contributes over $110 million annually to the economy – more than all of the territory’s other renewable resources combined.
“Tourism is of great importance to our economy, and is one of the few industries that has the potential to drive economic growth in every region of the territory,” said Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment David Ramsay. “Tourism Week gives us an opportunity to thank our tourism operators and recognize the great service they provide to our visitors, the job opportunities they provide to our residents, and the role they play in helping us share the diverse story of the NWT with the world.”
Nearly 70,000 visitors came across NWT borders in 2011 to camp, hunt, fish, view aurora, work or experience the many unique outdoor travel experiences available to tourists.
Tourism Week usually occurs in June, and in previous years NWT Tourism has held a “Fun in the Sun Golf Tournament” to celebrate. This year’s golf tournament will be held at a later date in June at the Yellowknife Golf Course.
The GNWT is committed to supporting the tourism industry in partnership with NWT Tourism to strengthen and diversify the economy, a key priority of the 17th Legislative Assembly.
For more information, contact:
Alayna Ward
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
867-920-8696
E-mail: Alayna_Ward@gov.nt.ca