When word came down a few weeks ago that Prime Minister Trudeau was about to announce changes to his cabinet, I kept my fingers crossed that Minister Boissonnault wouldn’t be among the displaced since he had a good grasp on tourism issues and was dedicated to championing our sector’s recovery. Moreover, his other portfolio in finance was extremely helpful in finding support for many initiatives put forward by our industry.

For lobbyists like me, cabinet shuffles can be a giant pain in the butt, especially after spending countless hours educating and developing relationships with key ministers who finally understand our sector only to be punted to another portfolio. Alas, the long cycle of briefings, relationship building, and advocacy begins all over again.

At the same time, changes in cabinet can be advantageous, as is the case with Minister Boissonnault. After being shuffled from the Tourism and Finance portfolios to Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, the minister was back in BC for the third time in just over a month announcing an adjustment to the Temporary Foreign Workers Program (TFW) that Tourism HR Canada, go2HR, our national partners at TIAC, along with TIABC and its provincial counterparts, as well as other sectors have been calling for in recent years.

This week the feds launched the Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) to help to reduce the administrative burden and simplify the hiring process for repeat TFW employers who demonstrate a history of complying with program requirements.

As you are aware, most employers need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before they can submit a work permit application to hire a temporary foreign worker to confirm there is a need and prove that no Canadians or permanent residents are available to do the job. It also ensures that the employer’s job offer is legitimate and that the employer has complied with TFW requirements to protect workers.

To participate in REP, employers must have a minimum of three positive LMIAs for the same occupation over the past five years from a list of occupations that have been designated as in-shortage and supported.

Employers who become recognized will gain access to LMIA validity periods of up to 36 months, and if required simplified LMIA applications to hire additional workers in the future. While stage one for the agriculture sector begins in September, other industry sectors including tourism can start applying in January through until September 2024.

Employers who are expected to meet REP eligibility criteria will be proactively invited to apply using a dual-purpose LMIA application that contains a request for the application to be used to apply for recognized status under REP and for the LMIA at the same time.

Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) will determine REP eligibility based on the employer’s history with the TFW Program. Should an employer not receive recognized status, they can still use the TFW program and have their LMIA’s assessed as per usual.

There is one additional wrinkle in BC that employers must contend with to hire a TFW if they’ve not done so previously…namely a certificate of registration issued by the province (unless using the Provincial Nominee or International Mobility programs). Unfortunately the certification process takes a minimum of three months.

Although the Recognized Employer Pilot is only for three years, it’s a positive development to help more tourism employers find the help they need to operate at full capacity. If successful, rest assured that TIABC and our sector partners here and across the country will push for a permanent recognized employer program for obvious reasons.

I have yet to meet the new tourism minister (Hon. Soraya Martinez Ferrada) who hails from Montreal but have reached out to connect soon. In the meantime, I’m counting on Minister Boissonnault (in his new role) to help BC’s tourism industry address its labour challenges given his knowledge of our sector, as well as the strong relationship he’s built with several tourism sector and business leaders in our province. In this case, shuffling Minister Boissonnault may be a good thing for our sector after all.

Walt Judas

CEO, TIABC

Earlier this week, officials within the Temporary Foreign Worker Program shared key facts related to Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) applications for Fiscal Year 2022-23, including the year-over-year change compared to the previous fiscal year.

Temporary Foreign Worker Program

Dual Intent and Permanent Residence Only LMIA's (Labour Market Impact Assessment)

TIABC is pleased to release episode #9 in our Voice of Tourism podcast series. Host Walt Judas speaks with John Wilson, President and CEO of the Wilson’s Group of Companies, about the work they’re doing in BC’s transportation sector, his journey into leading a diverse portfolio of businesses, and the issues currently facing tourism operators including labour shortages and debt repayment.

TIABC's Voice of Tourism podcast feature interviews with some of the most respected professionals in the tourism industry and has been developed to provide TIABC members and stakeholders with insightful content and a unique perspective on industry developments, policy directives, the work that sector associations are doing, and the opportunities that exist for businesses, communities, and government within the visitor economy.

Now Available on Spotify or the link below.

Destination BC's emergency messaging guidance document outlines official emergency information resources for BC’s tourism industry during emergencies.

Additionally, there are a variety of resources available to help you prepare for emergencies, gather up-to-date information and help visitors plan their travel.

Some parts of BC may see higher than normal temperatures and heat warnings in the coming days.Tourism businesses, travellers, and residents are encouraged to be prepared for extreme heat and drought conditions.

Tourism businesses in BC can download the Emergency Messaging Guidance document for emergency information resources, suggested messaging, visuals, and actions to use during emergencies such as extreme heat HERE.

There are only a few days left in the public comment period on the document that will guide decision-making about grizzlies for years to come, and that’s not enough time!

On July 12th, government launched the feedback period for the proposed Grizzly Bear Stewardship Framework. This is the first time there has been an update for grizzly conservation in almost 30 years.

The public has been given a deadline of August 18th to provide feedback and complete the survey. However, based on reading and understanding a complex framework document running 75 pages long, many concerned British Columbians feel this is not enough time and have made it clear they want a say in how these iconic animals are stewarded.

To support the request for an extension for more time to read the framework, learn about it, and complete the public survey process, a petition to Premier David Eby is now available.

You can learn more, sign the petition, and share with your network through this link.

Air Canada announced today it earned a profit of $838 million in its most recent quarter amid booming demand for travel and higher fares, and despite thousands of flight delays.

The carrier posted quarterly numbers that showed the company's financial results are levels not seen since before the pandemic.

Operating revenues in the three-month period up until the end of June touched $5.43 billion, up from $3.98 billion in the same period a year ago.

More than two thirds of the year-over-year increase in revenue came from international travel, according to CEO Michael Rousseau.

For the third quarter of 2023, Air Canada plans to increase its available seat miles (ASM) capacity by about 11% from the same quarter in 2022.

Learn more HERE.

Restaurants Canada’s has released preliminary results from their Q2 Outlook Survey. The extra responses from BC hospitality industry members helped built out BC-specific data that can be compared to the Canadian average and Ontario.

Restaurants Canada is working on a full summary Q2 Outlook survey report and will be available soon. Here are a few highlights from the Q2 survey:

To review the Q1 Outlook survey report, visit HERE.

4VI has announced a "Call for Nominations" for its Board of Directors.

One and two-year terms will begin November 2nd and are open to 4VI members in good standing and who meet the selection criteria.

Nominations are open through to August 23rd.

To learn more about the 4VI Governance, and to submit a nomination, visit HERE.

The Canadian Tourism Awards, presented by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC), recognizes the best and brightest in Canada’s tourism industry. From outstanding teams and organizations, to individual luminaries who surpass all expectations, exemplifying a commitment to provide nothing short of exceptional tourism experiences from coast-to-coast-to-coast are the kinds of nominees we're seeking.

Nominate a person, place or organization that is truly one of Canada’s best, offering travellers superior experiences, and authentically presenting the very best of Canada.

Nominations close August 15th! Learn more and nominate HERE.

Are you, or is someone you know, looking for a career in a destination management and destination promotion organization? Destination Vancouver wants to meet dynamic, ambitious, collaborative and fun individuals to join our high performing team.

Their job is to promote the tourism industry in Metro Vancouver and generate business for their members through strategic, innovative and sustainable sales and marketing initiatives.

Visit HERE to learn more about these exciting positions and to apply.

The BC Hospitality Foundation (BCHF) annual flagship fundraising lottery has raised over $190,000 for the Foundation. Coming off the success of 2022, they have rebranded the lottery to Spirit of Hospitality Lottery, presented by the Hotel Association of Vancouver.

The BCHF is in the final stages of their recruitment process, securing donated packages from hotels, restaurants, and tourism operators. The BCHF will be packaging up tourism activities/experiences, hotel, and restaurant packages to submit to BCLC by August 23rd to secure our license. We are asking to please consider a donation to this valuable cause. Contact Alana for further information and to submit your package.

Barkerville Historic Town & Park has announced they are celebrating the 8th Annual Indigenous Peoples’. This year’s event will be taking place over two days.

Dates: August 19 & 20.

Visitors will get a taste of Indigenous culture and history, and the weekend will include an artists’ market as well as games, dances, stories, and complimentary Bannock.

Evidence of early Indigenous settlement in the region dates back over 10,000 years, and several Indigenous nations have history and territory in the area, including Lhtako Dene, Nazko, Lhoosk’uz, Ulkatcho, ʔEsdilagh, Xatśūll, Simpcw, and Lheidli T’enneh.

To learn more about Barkerville’s Indigenous Peoples’ Celebration, and to book campgrounds and accommodations, visit HERE.

The BC farming family who pioneered the beloved Chilliwack Sunflower Festival and Chilliwack Tulip Festival is moving the festivals to a new location in Agassiz, near Harrison Hot Springs.

The new Harrison Sunflower Festival is tentatively slated to open on August 22nd this year (the exact opening date is dependent on bloom stage; follow @harrisonsunflowerfest for updates).

The Harrison Sunflower Festival replaces the Chilliwack Sunflower Festival.

Read the official announcement and learn more HERE.

The BC Taxi Association is a non-profit organization representing the majority of taxi companies throughout British Columbia. It exists to promote & safeguard the interest of the taxi industry in the province. The BC Taxi Association is:

Learn more about the BC Taxi Association HERE.

We strongly encourage you to consider membership or renew your membership with TIABC to support our important advocacy efforts on behalf of the entire visitor economy.

TIABC continues to identify your concerns, raise your voice, champion your needs, and push for support and programs while encouraging policy changes at both the provincial and federal level.

Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.

The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) are pleased to offer TIABC members an opportunity to extend their membership. Effective now, TIABC members in good standing can enrol in TIAC’s Associate Program FOR ONLY $25.

TIAC is the national voice for the travel and tourism sector and acts on behalf of Canadian tourism businesses promoting and supporting policies, programs, and activities that will benefit the sector’s growth, development, and prosperity.

By visiting this link, you can become a TIAC Associate Member, enjoy access to a range of TIAC benefits and add your voice to National efforts.

Note: If you are already a TIAC associate member, you will receive a renewal notice before your anniversary date. If you are currently a full TIAC member, you already get enhanced advantages. You will continue to enjoy added benefits and savings over and above what is available to associate members, including the TIAC Member Advantage program at Rendez-vous Canada.

Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information or visit our website HERE.

Join the BC Hotel Association and host go2HR’s Cindy Conti, Regional HR Consultant for Vancouver, Coast, and Mountains, to explore how you and your organization can create Safer Spaces in the tourism and hospitality industry.

Date: August 16

Time: 1:00 pm (PT) / Virtual

go2HR will be providing an informative, hands-on workshop on how to operationalize Safer Spaces sexual harassment training within your workplace.

Learn more and register HERE.

Camping Appreciation Weekend will soon be here and it's a time when many Canadian campgrounds coast-to-coast say thank you to campers for their patronage.

Dates: September 8-10.

The weekend is organized and sponsored by the Canadian Camping and RV Council and supported by the BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association to:

It’s not too late to sign your campground up to participate. Email Joss Penny at jpenny@bclca.com or sign up online HERE.

The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) Fast Track Your Future Education Series is back. Register for five exciting and condensed six-week courses that will transform your team. Mark your calendar every Wednesday at 11am PST (12pm MST) for practical knowledge and guidance LIVE from the industry's leading experts and trainers.

Learn more and register HERE.

Victoria 9th Annual Tournament

August 23 - Olympic View

If you want to become a sponsor, contact Samantha at samantha@sasparilla.ca our Event Manager or Mike Macleod, Golf Committee Chair at mike@bcha.com

The 30th Annual Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) Golf Tournament will be hosted at Bighorn Golf & Country Club in Kamloops.

Date: Thursday, August 24

The event comes with a full day of food, drink, and fun and is a fundraiser to create bursaries to support tourism students from Thompson Rivers University, University of BC Okanagan, and Okanagan College.

Learn More & Register HERE.

The Abbotsford International Airshow has grown to become one of the Fraser Valley’s largest and most exciting annual events.

Dates: Aug. 11, 12 & 13

Location: Abbotsford International Airport

Early Bird Tickets on Sale Now! Early Bird ticket access is EXCLUSIVE to Airshow Insiders.

Learn more about the event performers and event attractions HERE.

The official First Call for Nominations has been sent out to WGBC full members with available Board of Director positions to be elected/acclaimed by those members present and in good standing at our Annual General Meeting.

Date: September 6 (Virtual)

Wine Growers BC encourages all eligible Full Winery Members in good standing to consider soliciting nominations from their same Winery Category for the position of a Board Director. Request your nomination package HERE.

A reminder that during the AGM, all Full Winery Members will have the opportunity to vote for each director for which there is an election required.

Register for the AGM HERE.

The stɑl̓əw̓ Arts and Cultural Society, with head office located on Kwantlen First Nation land in Fort Langley, is delighted and honoured to host the second annual stɑl̓əw̓ pow-wow.

Date: Sept. 15-17

Location: Langley Events Centre

Learn more including the list of daily activities HERE.

The Northern BC Tourism Association will be holding their annual Summit, and you are encouraged to mark your calendar.

The Road Forward is the theme for the 2023 Summit. The sector has taken continual hits from natural disasters and global pandemics to economic pressures and this year is our opportunity to come back together and plot the road forward together.

Date: October 11-13

Location: Ramada Hotel, 444 George Street, Prince George

Learn more and register HERE.

The highly anticipated second annual SPARK BC Hotel and Liquor Conference is back!

BC’s Alliance of Beverage Licensees (ABLE BC) and the British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) are joining forces once again to bring together industry experts in hospitality, liquor retail, and accommodation.

This event offers an unparalleled opportunity for liquor and hospitality businesses across BC to network with like-minded professionals, connect with industry leaders, and gain valuable insights from informative sessions and speakers.

Date: October 16 & 17

Location: Anvil Centre, New Westminster

Learn more HERE.

The BCRFA BC Restaurant Hall of Fame is returning. The BC dining scene is recognized across the country as industry and trend leading.

The highlight of the evening is the 2023 BC Restaurant Hall of Fame awards presentation. This year’s inductees will join the almost 100 individuals whose contributions have been forever commemorated in the BC Restaurant Hall of Fame to date.

Date: October 23

Location: Italian Culture Centre, Vancouver

Tickets to attend the Inductee Evening are now on sale and are available HERE.

Greater Vancouver Board of Trade is pleased to be hosting the second annual Business Distinction Awards.

Date: October 25

Location: Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront, Vancouver

These awards recognize businesses that have gone above and beyond to set themselves apart in the Greater Vancouver region in the areas of growth, employee engagement, community impact, sustainability and more.

Winners will be announced and celebrated at this event in front of colleagues, families and friends.

Learn more and register HERE.

The Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association will be holding it's 46th Annual General Meeting & Industry Conference. You are encouraged to mark your calendar.

Date: November 1-2

Location: Copper Point Resort - Invermere

Details to follow in the months ahead!

Tourism Congress will soon be taking place. This annual event brings together over 500 industry leaders and peers from across the country and includes innovative programming, motivational speakers, expert panelists and a balance of networking and gathering opportunities.

The two-day event concludes with an evening of celebration at TIAC's Canadian Tourism Awards.

Date: November 21st & 22nd

Location: Westin, Ottawa

Learn more and register HERE.

Be sure to save the date for Boating BC’s 2023 conference. There will be world class speakers, great discussions and amazing entertainment at the Cascades Casino.

Marina night will be on November 20th. Please mark the dates in your calendar - more information to be shared soon.

Date: November 21-22

Location: Delta Hotels by Marriott, 6055 Highway 17A, Delta

Planning for the 2024 Tourism Industry Conference has already begun, and you are encouraged to "Save the Date" for this must attend conference. The conference will be held at the Victoria Conference Centre, March 6 & 7, 2024.

Stay tuned for updates on workshops, speakers, sponsor opportunities, daily activities, awards, as well as schedule and accommodation.

We look forward to seeing you in Victoria next year!

Join us and explore this vibrant, diverse and naturally beautiful city located on the traditional, ancestral, unceded territory of the Syilx/Okanagan people.

Date: May 28 - 30, 2024

Location: Coast Capri, 1171 Harvey Ave., Kelowna, BC

Drop us a line at info@tiabc.ca.

TIABC recognizes that our members, stakeholders and staff occupy the ceded, unceded and traditional territories of Indigenous Nations across British Columbia. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play on the lands that our Indigenous friends and First Nations ancestors honour and care for.