Dear Tourism Partners,

This has been a significant week for Nova Scotia, with government announcing the broader reopening of businesses on June 5th, and with that, the opportunity for the Tourism Economy to ramp up safely and plan for domestic travel. As of today, the group gathering number has been increased to 10 people and private campgrounds will be able to open, for all types of campers next Friday.  While encouraging, TIANS recognizes these are initial steps towards recovery and there is a journey ahead of us, as we rebuild our industry and our economy. 

Earlier this week, TIANS hosted a video call with Nova Scotia’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Robert Strang, members of the TIANS and TNS Boards and Industry stakeholders. With nearly 100 attendees on the call, discussion focused on the need for clear, timely reopening plans and clarification for industry around reopening requirements. Highlights from the call have been added to the TourismStrong.ca FAQ page.

The provincial government has launched a new support site, Preparing to reopen Nova Scotia, designed to inform and guide businesses. They are encouraging businesses to email [email protected] with questions. Effective June 5th, businesses required to close under the public health order can now reopen. There are a few exceptions and guidelines; please click here for the release. As we saw in New Brunswick this week, the industry and public need to remain diligent and follow the rules and protocols to ensure we will not have to shut down again. 

The past three months have significantly tested the resiliency of Nova Scotia’s tourism sector. TIANS has focused our energies on advocating and supporting the industry; we developed a Workplan Summary of those actions in our Fortifying Nova Scotia’s Tourism Economy report.

We have secured a new resource for businesses – Clean it Right.  Endorsed by a number of leading organizations, including Tourism HR Canada and the Retail Council of Canada, this new program will be available through an online platform, and is focused on cleaning and disinfecting best practices.

Beginning in June, TIANS will be launching a new podcast series highlighting the incredible stories of our industry from around the province. Episodes and many other relevant resources and updates will be available on our Tourism Strong digital hub.

As we move into our traditional start of the summer season, we urge you to stay in touch – stay Tourism Strong. 

Sincerely,
The TIANS Team