Approval of Glacier Discovery Walk a Great Tourism Opportunity
Ottawa, February 9, 2012 — The announcement of the approval for the Glacier Discovery Walk project on the Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park is an important step in helping us share our natural wonders with visitors from around the globe and our fellow Canadians, said the Tourism Industry Association of Canada. The announcement of the project’s approval was made today by Environment Minister Peter Kent in Ottawa.
“The Glacier Discovery Walk will be a compelling addition to Canada’s tourism product, and will provide a great opportunity for Canadians and international travelers alike to connect with Canada’s mountain national parks in a unique way,” said David Goldstein, President and CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada.
TIAC greatly appreciates the efforts of Minister Kent and officials at Parks Canada in the extensive consultation and review process undertaken to ensure that this project respects the natural surroundings, and enhances access and appreciation for our system of National Parks.
TIAC also recognizes the outstanding work of Brewster Travel Canada in creating a state of the art, fully accessible, viewing and guided interpretive experience of the unique ecosystem of the Columbia Icefield area. Brewster is a leader in Canada’s tourism sector, and has over 120 years of experience in the sustainable development of our National Parks.
This new initiative is precisely aligned with the goal stated in the Federal Tourism Strategy to “attract 10 percent more visitors to Canada's national parks and historic sites over the next five years by increasing their attractiveness as destinations and improving the quality of visitor experiences.” Moreover, it provides a great opportunity for increased collaboration between the public and private sectors to help entice international travellers to choose Canada as a destination.
TIAC firmly believes that our National Parks system is a treasure, and one whose true value rests in our ability to share it with fellow Canadians and visitors from around the globe. We look forward to welcoming the world to Jasper National Park to experience this award-winning experience.
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About the Tourism Industry Association of Canada:
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada is the only national organization representing the full cross-section of Canada's $74 billion tourism industry. TIAC's members include air and passenger rail services, airport authorities, local and provincial destination authorities, hotels, attractions and tour operators.
For more information, please contact:
Kevin Desjardins
Vice-President, Strategy and Public Affairs
Tourism Industry Association of Canada
Tel.: 613.238.6251
Mobile: 613.240.7225
