TIANS requests that tourism minister seek solution for 2010 ferry service

The Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia (TIANS) has formally requested the minister of tourism initiate discussions with the federal government and other stakeholders to find a temporary solution for ferry service into Southwest Nova Scotia. "While TIANS supports the government's interest in investigating viable and sustainable access into Nova Scotia, we are extremely concerned about the cancellation of service for 2010 and the immediate and long-term impact on the tourism industry," said Danny Morton, Chair of TIANS. "TIANS has requested that Tourism Minister, Percy Paris, expedite a meeting with the federal government and the appropriate provincial and municipal agencies to come up with a temporary solution for 2010 that would assure access into Southwestern Nova Scotia. TIANS believes this would allow for a more strategic approach on transportation access, provide an opportunity for a thoughtful review of pending research and mitigate the significant economic losses that will result without any service," said Morton.

Access from the United States into southwest Nova Scotia has long served as a key entry into the province and is a gateway for Atlantic Canada. "Although we have seen declining numbers over the past few years for a number of reasons, the US market is still one of our greatest opportunities for growing the visitor economy," said Darlene Grant Fiander, President of TIANS. TIANS has support on this issue from the Atlantic Canada Tourism Caucus, which represents over 3,000 tourism operators in the four Atlantic Canadian Provinces.

TIANS mandate is to lead, support, represent and enhance Nova Scotia's tourism industry. TIANS is the provincial advocate for the Nova Scotia tourism industry and strives to enhance the industry's competitiveness and prosperity through increased professionalism and product development. In accomplishing this goal, TIANS works closely with many partners, regional and sector associations and all levels of government.