Media Release For Immediate Release

May 29, 2009

The Ottawa Valley celebrates Tourism Week in Canada!

(Pembroke, ON) – June 1^st to 7^th, 2009 is Tourism Week in Canada, which is a great opportunity for all Canadians to celebrate the important contributions that Canada’s $74.9 billion tourism sector makes to our economy and our communities.

Coordinated by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada around the theme “Tourism Matters!”, Tourism Week is the national celebration that highlights the economic and social benefits of this multifaceted industry, and provides a focal point for activities and events planned across the country by businesses, provincial, territorial and regional tourism industry associations, destination marketing organizations and others.

Here in the Ottawa Valley, events and activities include:

-          June 1-6: Following the adventures of local resident mascot Mr. Blackfly on ‘A’ Morning TV

-          June 1: Official launch of the Giant Canyon zip line and the Via Ferrata at the Chutes Coulonge Park, in Fort-Coulonge

-          June 1-6: Anniversary sale at the Meadows Unique Decor & Gifts, in Eganville

-          June 6 & 7: Art Exhibitions at the Stone School Gallery in Portage-du-Fort

Tourism keeps 1.66 million Canadians working, supports economic and community development, and generates over $20 billion in tax revenues for all levels of government – money that pays for a range of important programs like health care and education.

In the Ottawa Valley, tourism is worth over $100 million a year and employs ten percent of the workforce, in sectors such as accommodations, attractions, festivals and events.

“Tourism in the Ottawa Valley is extremely important to our local economy and helps support community and quality of life amenities,” noted Mitchell Wilkie, Manager of the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association. “We’re not surprised by the number of tourists that like what they see and decide to become permanent residents of Renfrew County. They bring diversity and new energy to our community, as well as new investment dollars and jobs.”

The OVTA is the official destination marketing organization for the Upper Ottawa Valley and proudly represents more than 230 tourism businesses, comprised of attractions and events, accommodation, dining and retail establishments, rafting companies and outfitters, artists and galleries, as well as media and industry suppliers.

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