Dear Members,    

It has been a significant week as the Province of Nova Scotia has provided further clarity around its five-phase approach to an economic re-opening plan.  While we acknowledge the ongoing concerns around the health priority and applaud the efforts to keep Nova Scotia safe, we are asking that government escalate efforts around the tourism economic crisis and support the sector’s rebuild in a cohesive and coordinated way.  Last week TIANS responded to the proposed re-opening, and earlier today, hosted a broad sector call with Tourism Nova Scotia, to ensure the government was considering the challenges of all five tourism sectors. View May 31 Letter to Premier Rankin.

TIANS continues to receive many questions from operators seeking clarity and we are updating the Tourism Strong portal daily with the latest information.   

TIANS has been working with its Atlantic Partners on a number of coordinated initiatives to support a cohesive reopening plan.  Last month on behalf of the Travel Trade Industry, TIANS submitted draft Re-opening Guidelines for the Maritime Provinces to the Chief Medical Officers and relevant Ministers.  Having a coordinated and consistent approach will enable tour operators and suppliers to confidently sell the region and support local businesses. View May 7 Correspondence.

TIANS believes that as we emerge from this extraordinary time, it is time to build pride and confidence for consumers and businesses alike. We believe that Nova Scotians will step up and help the tourism economy recover and we fully support Tourism Nova Scotia’s upcoming launch of their new “Shine On” Confidence Campaign.  As noted below, you are invited by TNS to a June 10th Webinar to update industry on marketing efforts and opportunities. 

We continue to advocate for a Made in Nova Scotia Activation program that will support every Nova Scotia community and get Main Streets going again! 

On a labour front we are hearing from operators regarding rights related to vaccination adherence.  Businesses need guidance on changes to regulations and laws that will ensure a safe re-opening.  We are working with the department of Labour & Advanced Education and anticipate information webinars in the coming days and weeks to support you.  We have a number of programs to assist in your reopening needs, related to the tourism workforce; please connect with us on your specific needs, email tians@tourism.ca.  We know many operators are having difficulty as they begin recruitment and adjustments need to be made to the labour policy and TIANS has reached out to the federal government around employment supports that are disruptive to a fulsome reopening of the economy.  

While there is optimism as industry looks forward to the phased re-opening, TIANS knows that over the coming weeks there is much more work still ahead. Targeted supports for the industry, which recognizes the unique needs of the 5 sectors of Tourism is crucial.  We have shared feedback and recommended solutions on how to best support those who are currently ineligible. We have asked the federal government to adjust key support programs, like CEWS and CERS, and continue support for Tourism, specifically, until December 2022. We will continue to fiercely advocate, on your behalf, publicly and behind the scenes to ensure your interests are protected.

As always, we invite you to stay connected through Tourism Strong and by joining the conversation at the TIANS Together Discussion Group on Facebook.

We extend our support as you get ready to welcome customers back and also acknowledge the significant loss faced by many Nova Scotians, from both a health and economic perspective.  We are reminded daily.

On behalf of the TIANS Board and Staff, thank you, for your continued support and for stepping up in your communities.  We look forward to better days ahead.

Darlene Grant Fiander, TIANS President & Judy Saunders, TIANS Chair