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While cycling aimlessly in Regina last month, I happened upon a beautiful park where dozens of folks were enjoying recreational activities. I learned that the residents of this new neighbourhood were largely African immigrants who had not only settled in this area, but all over Saskatchewan’s capital city.
Last year, 24,000+ newcomers moved to Regina, boosting the population to just under 300,000. Consequently, the city enjoys a strong labour market with steady employment growth and a declining unemployment rate. But to be fair, many employers still struggle to find workers with the right skills.
Sound familiar? It should since several BC communities have experienced significant growth in recent years yet recruiting employees remains a challenge for one reason or another.
Tourism HR Canada maintains that with an aging population, declining birth rates, and a shrinking domestic labour pool, immigration is paramount to filling job vacancies in the tourism sector. From what I observed, Regina is proof of that but don’t take my word for it. Reports show that immigration currently accounts for 100% of Canada’s labour force growth.
At the same time, the Government of Canada has slowed the torrid pace of immigration recently to restore balance to the system, which has allowed decision-makers time to figure out the impact of newcomers on things like social programs and housing. However, it has also added to the ongoing labour woes for many tourism operators across the country including here in British Columbia.
The issue is further compounded by national labour policy that favours high-skilled economic immigrants versus lower-skilled workers, yet the reality is we need both. As you know, for years our industry has been forced to rely on the Temporary Foreign Worker (TFP) program to fill the (5% of) jobs that Canadians and permanent residents aren’t applying for…which in many cases has proven to be an exercise in futility.
While there are many more complexities to this topic than I have room to share, there is reason to be optimistic that some of the issues related to the labour file will be addressed via lobbying by multiple business sectors that support recommendations contained in a new white paper on Reimagining Immigration: The Canadian International Workforce Program (CIWP), which advocates for a revised immigration program that welcomes those with limited skills.
At a briefing this week by the Commissioner of Employers, we learned that like the TFW program, CIWP (with two sub-streams – temporary and year-round immigration) aims to connect foreign labour supply to Canada’s labour market demand; enable employers who use the program to do so as a last resort; complement Canadians workers in workplaces with foreign workers; and tie a foreign worker to a job.
If CIWP is executed well, foreign workers will find a pathway to permanent residency and be protected while employers are provided certainty of employees from a variety of skills levels. Among the recommendations, the white paper suggests extending the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) maximum work duration to five years, implement measures to enable employers to retain their current foreign workers, strengthen worker protections, reinstate the limit on the number of foreign workers to 20% of full-time, year-round staff, among other ideas.
Although CIWP is not the perfect solution, the current system is broken so anything that endeavours to fix the suite of problems should be considered. In the meantime, our partners at go2HR provided some excellent insights on the white paper noting, among other observations, that now may not be the best time to advocate for increased immigration considering an unsteady economic climate caused by tariffs, inflation, job losses, various crises, and additional factors. Once we receive further feedback from TIABC’s Policy Committee and other experts on the labour file, we’ll determine whether to champion this initiative as part of lobbying efforts at the federal level. Stay tuned.
After frequent trips to visit family, I’ve come to recognize that Regina is much more than its stereotypical image of ardent Riders’ fans and farmers in pick-up trucks and John Deere ball caps. Given the volume of immigrants that have moved there in recent years, it’s become a much more cosmopolitan city that continues to evolve into a desirable place to live, work and play. Sound familiar? It should since several BC communities have experienced a similar pattern over the last decade.
Walt Judas,
CEO, TIABC
| | Stay updated on the latest news and developments by checking out this week's compilation of important matters impacting and influencing our industry. | | | |
TIABC Submission on Extended Leave Period
Recommendations to Ministry of Labour's Consultation Process | 27-week Job Protection
Last week, TIABC provided information and recommendations on the Ministry of Labour’s formal consultation process on the implementation of a 27-week job-protected medical/illness leave that works for B.C.’s tourism economy.
The letter explains that employers need clarity on documentation, continuous service across seasons, and reinstatement when roles are seasonal or casual so workers are protected, and businesses can plan coverage without undue disruption.
Highlights of the recommendations include:
1) Clear and predictable timing
2) Clear medical documentation rules for long-term leave
3) Seasonal operations guidance
4) Implementation toolkit for small and remote employers
5) Targeted transition supports
Read the letter to the Ministry of Labour HERE.
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ICYMI | Opportunity to Join TIABC on Parliament Hill
In Partnership with TIAC
This new event is an evolution of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada’s Hill Days annual advocacy meetings, focusing on raising awareness of the industry’s challenges and supporting policy development to best support the sector.
We can include up to 5 TIABC members to partner with us. Please note that all travel costs and related expenses for your participation are the responsibility of the participating member.
Where: Ottawa | Monday, September 22, 2025 I Sir John A. Macdonald Building
Partners will be selected to reflect:
Regional and sector diversity representative of BC’s rich tourism landscape and alignment with the event’s national goals.
Why Participate?
Promote your product, sector, and region to federal decision-makers being part of a coordinated national showcase with partners across Canada to represent the diversity and strength of BC’s tourism industry.
If you'd like to join us in Ottawa this September, please email: Cassandra Zerebeski @ czerebeski@tiabc.ca by August 29 to express interest. Let’s put BC tourism in the national spotlight – together!
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Destination BC - Call for Applications
Tourism Marketing Committee | 2026-2028 Term
The call for applications is now open! Help shape the future of tourism in British Columbia by joining the Tourism Marketing Committee (TMC) and work with Destination BC to build a successful, dynamic, and sustainable tourism sector for BC.
Destination BC is seeking six representatives for three-year terms beginning January 1, 2026. The TMC requires one representative from each of the following tourism regions: Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, Kootenay Rockies, Northern BC, and Vancouver, Coast & Mountains. Destination BC is also seeking two representatives from the Vancouver Island tourism region. No new representatives are required for the Thompson Okanagan region in 2026.
Deadline to apply is October 17th. Learn more and apply HERE.
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ABLE BC Submits Industry Feedback to LCRB on Liquor to Go Program
Following a series of province-wide townhalls, a member survey, and ongoing committee discussions, ABLE BC has submitted industry's feedback on the Liquor to Go program to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB).
Their policy recommendations focused on:
- Mitigating unintended impacts on small businesses caused by misuse of the program;
- Ensuring proactive enforcement and compliance to protect the integrity of the policy;
- Reinforcing the program’s original intention to assist small hospitality businesses during challenging economic times; and
- Preserving social responsibility, with measures to protect public safety and youth access.
ABLE BC emphasized the importance of regulatory clarity, effective enforcement, and fairness across the sector, ensuring government clearly heard the concerns and priorities of BC’s liquor and hospitality businesses.
If you have additional questions about ABLE BC’s Liquor to Go advocacy, please contact Bo Chen at bo@ablebc.ca .
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Canada Sees Rise in International Visitors with
U.S. Decline
In a recent Forbes article, Destination Canada’s Meaghan Ferrigno, Senior Vice President, CFO and Chief Data & Analytics Officer, shared data-led insight into how Canada’s growing international appeal, “with many visitors opting for Canada as an alternative to the U.S.”
The article notes that "Canada is seeing strong interest from travellers in our target overseas markets, especially from the UK. Guests from Europe and the UK are particularly attracted to Canada’s awe-inspiring landscapes and culturally rich experiences, as well as the country’s reputation of being safe and welcoming,”
Read the article HERE.
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StatCan Release Newest Podcast
"Canadians Just Aren't California Dreamin' These Days"
If you've changed your plans to visit the US recently, you're not alone. Statistics Canada’s newest podcast has published an episode entitled Canadians Just Aren't California Dreamin' These Days.
In this episode, you will meet Jane Lin, of the Tourism Statistics Program at Statistics Canada, to dig into StatCan's tourism data and talk about how travel is different these days. The episode runs for 11 minutes.
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Input Needed | BCHA Workforce Survey to Help Strengthen BC's Accommodation Sector
The BC Hotel Association (BCHA) has heard labour shortages, immigration barriers, and the looming 2026 workforce crunch are major concerns — threatening hotel operations, guest experience, and long-term industry sustainability.
The BCHA is seeking input to demonstrate the real impacts that will help push for change. Complete our short survey to share your workforce experiences — your feedback will directly inform BCHA’s advocacy with government.
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Synergy Academy Offering New Courses Dedicated to Tourism Sector
Synergy Academy is a new learning format from Synergy Enterprises, created to make real-world sustainability knowledge more accessible and actionable for the business community.
Their courses empower executives, professionals, teams, and emerging leaders to integrate sustainability into their operations, strategy, and decision-making processes.
The first offerings of the Academy are dedicated to building skills and knowledge in the tourism sectors, with two courses this fall.
Each 5-module course is capped at 25 attendees to ensure quality engagement and networking opportunities with guest experts, instructors and fellow participants from around Canada.
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BC Tourism Industry Will See Impact of Air Canada Strike
In an interview with Vista radio earlier this week, TIABC CEO Walt Judas, reinforced to the audience that the Air Canada strike came during the peak of tourism season in the province and will definitely have an impact on BC's tourism industry this summer.
Read more on this interview HERE.
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The Go Fish BC Photo Contest is Now Open!
Categories
- B.C. Fishing Landscapes
- Fishing Buddies
- Fishing Firsts
First Prize: $300
Second Prize: $150
How to enter
For your chance to win, complete the entry form, upload your best freshwater fishing photos, and click “ENTER.” It’s that easy! The contest closes on October 31, 2025.
Learn more and enter to win HERE.
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Now more than ever, it's time to celebrate the beauty, energy, and unforgettable experiences found right here at home.
Would you like to be part of our weekly Postcards from BC feature? Send a photo of you enjoying a BC destination to deborah@tiabc.ca.
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GREATER VICTORIA HARBOUR AUTHORITY
The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority, (GVHA) is a not-for-profit organization, owning and operating deep water, marina, and upland holdings throughout Victoria's Inner & Outer Harbour. This includes Ogden Point, Wharf and Johnson Street marinas, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Causeway and Ship Point Pier. The GVHA also manages and operates the former Steamship Terminal and water lot under lease from the Province.
Learn more about the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority HERE.
Photo Credit: Greater Victoria Harbour Authority
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Let's Work Together on What Matters Most
To bolster industry advocacy efforts, membership in the Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) is a good investment.
Becoming a member of TIABC offers many significant benefits that can enhance your business, elevate your voice on the issues that matter, and contribute to the success of BC’s visitor economy. As well, you will gain ease of access to a collaborative network of businesses, partners and allies that support the tourism industry, both nationally and provincially.
NEW! Associate Member Category
If you’re a tourism operator and already an active member of another sector association or DMO and cannot afford a full membership in TIABC, consider supporting us by becoming a TIABC Associate. For a nominal annual fee you’ll receive streamlined benefits and opportunities, including adding your voice to the conversation about the future of our sector.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
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Destination Dialogues 2025 | Rethinking Experience Development: From Ideation to Export Ready
Join Destination Canada for a free 90-minute session to explore how destinations, businesses, and community leaders can develop regenerative, Indigenous tourism experiences in rural, remote, and northern areas of Canada.
Date: October 8
Time: 9:00 am (PDT)
This session is tailored for tourism and destination development professionals in Canada. It will share best practices in rural experience development, leaving you informed, inspired and empowered to create regenerative travel experiences deeply rooted in your community.
This year's session theme will focus on Indigenous tourism in collaboration with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada.
Learn more and register HERE.
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Resort Municipality of Whistler Celebrating 50 Years!
Congratulations to the Resort Municipality of Whistler - celebrating 50 years!
To celebrate this milestone, the community and guests are invited to help celebrate with a vibrant four-day event series followed by community-focused events into the fall. The celebrations honor Whistler's history and future, featuring concerts, cultural events, and activities like a Sunday Socials series that included a Tails & Trails 5K, games, a DJ, and stargazing.
Dates: August 21 - 24
The anniversary theme is "Trailblazers to Tomorrow Makers," acknowledging both the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh and Líl̓wat7úl Peoples as the land's original stewards and the people who shaped Whistler's growth.
This is a tribute to Whistler’s adventurous roots and a celebration of the community shaping its future. Learn more HERE.
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19th Annual Partners In Tourism Invitational Golf Tournament
The Partners in Tourism Invitational Golf Tournament is a fundraising event organized by Partners in Tourism to support future generations of tourism professionals. The tournament raises funds through various means, including sponsorships and donations, which are then used to provide scholarships and awards to students and programs in the tourism and hospitality industry.
Date: Thursday, August 28
Location: Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club
Learn more including how to register and how to donate HERE.
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Wine Capital Weekend Returns to Oliver!
The Oliver Tourism Association is thrilled to announce that Wine Capital Weekend will return for another unforgettable celebration. As the Wine Capital of Canada, Oliver welcomes locals and visitors alike to experience three days of wine, craft beverages, food, live music, team competitions, and family-friendly fun.
Dates: September 19-21
The weekend will once again feature:
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Kick-Off Party at District Wine Village – This year’s musical act will be GLASS TIGER
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Cask & Keg Festival – A celebration of craft beer, cider, and spirits featuring delicious eats, live entertainment, yard games, a family zone, and the crowd-favourite Beer Olympics.
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Festival of the Grape – The South Okanagan’s premier wine tasting event returns for its 26th year.
Early-bird deadline for tickets is June 30th! Learn more, including how to participate and purchase tickets HERE.
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FIFA World Cup 26: Industry Update
Join Destination Vancouver, the FIFA World Cup 26™ Vancouver Host Committee, and tourism partners for an update on preparations for FIFA World Cup 26™.
Date: Monday, September 22
Time: 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm (PDT)
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre (West), Rooms 211-214
This session will provide up-to-date information on tournament planning, highlight the opportunities and milestones ahead, and how Vancouver is preparing to deliver an outstanding FIFA World Cup 26™ experience.
RSVP early to ensure your place through THIS LINK.
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4TVI | 2025 Vancouver Island Stewardship Summit
You are invited to the 4TVI Vancouver Island Stewardship Summit. The 2025 program will focus on the efforts of stewardship through destination management and collaboration. Speakers will provide tangible, inspiring presentations for attendees. The full day event will also include a State of the Region presentation.
Date: October 2-3
Location: Coast Bastion, Nanaimo
Registration is now open.
Early Bird Registration (until July 31): $199 + GST
General Registration $299 = GST
Learn more and register HERE.
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Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit
The Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit, a must-attend event for anyone passionate about the development of a strong tourism sector in Northern British Columbia.
Ready to connect, learn, and lead the future of tourism? The Northern BC 2025 Tourism Summit is your opportunity to be part of the region’s most dynamic gathering of tourism professionals, entrepreneurs, and community changemakers.
Dates: October 15-17
Location: Courtyard by Marriott, Prince George
Learn more and register HERE.
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CCCTA Tourism Summit and AGM
Join the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCT) for an extraordinary event – the annual 2025 Tourism Summit & AGM.
Dates: October 17-19
Location: Quesnel
Join delegates from across the region and all areas of BC tourism to network, gain knowledge and support the tourism industry and economy. The event is designed to educate, provide network opportunities, influence new ideas and recognize our amazing industry leaders here in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast.
Learn more about the Summit and AGM HERE. Registration is now open HERE.
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Mark Your Calendar | TOTA AGM and Summit
The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) has announced the dates for the 2025 TOTA AGM & Summit.
Dates: October 22-23
Location: KF Centre for Excellence, Kelowna
Last year's Summit was a sold-out event that brought together tourism industry professionals from around the region for two days to network, engage in industry-specific workshops, and learn from experts.
Stay tuned for more details, including registration and speaker updates.
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Western Ideas Forum & AccomEx
Registration is now open for the inaugural Western Ideas Forum & AccomEx.
Dates: November 3 - 6
Location: St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino, Cranbrook
Come join campground, RV park, glamping, and outdoor hospitality operators from across Western Canada for three days of:
- Inspiring speakers and expert-led sessions
- Practical workshops tailored to your business
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers
- An exhibitor showcase featuring products and services designed for your operation
Learn more and register HERE. Early bird registration ends Sept. 15.
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Save the Date!
Boating BC 2025 Conference: Rocking The Industry – Navigating Disruptive Times
Presented by Mercury Marine, this is the must-attend event for marine professionals across the province — a dynamic two-day experience packed with industry insight, leadership, and valuable networking. We’re also excited to announce our first confirmed speaker: Vaughn Palmer of the Vancouver Sun, returning to share his always-popular perspectives.
Dates: November 18-19
Location: River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond
To learn more about the conference sponsorship opportunities, visit HERE. Early bird tickets go on sale in early September — stay tuned!
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TIAC - 2025 Tourism Congress
Tourism is more than travel—it is a tool for unity across Canada. TourismCan celebrates the industry that unites the country through building economies, communities, careers, innovation, and policy. Tourism is the thread that ties Canada together.
Dates: November 18–20, 2025
Location: Hilton Lac-Leamy, Gatineau, QC
Here’s what you can look forward to:
- Engage with industry leaders and stakeholders from across the country
- Participate in critical discussions on the future of Canadian tourism
- Recognize and honour the strength, resilience, and ingenuity of Canada’s tourism sector
Early-bird registration is open until August 13, 11:59 pm. Learn more and register HERE.
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IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit - 2026
Registration is now open for 2026's iteration of the IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit Victoria
Dates: January 25-28
Get ready to explore Aligned action, shared direction, and real progress alongside global changemakers. With a brand-new Workshop Series, immersive case studies, and hands-on tools to take home, IMPACT 2026 will equip you to transform your destination into one that's not just visited, but nurtured.
Learn more and secure your spot HERE.
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SAVE THE DATE | 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference
The 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (#2026IITC), hosted in partnership with Indigenous Tourism Alberta and Explore Edmonton, will be held on unceded Treaty 6 Territory in Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton).
Dates: February 17-19, 2026.
The many Nations that call the area home, including Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Sioux and Métis People, are excited to welcome you to their territory at this amazing celebration of Indigenous tourism. Save the date!
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SAVE THE DATE | 2026 BC Tourism Industry Conference
It's hard to believe the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference is behind us! While planning for 2026 won't begin until early fall, we're excited to announce the date and location:
Dates: March 4-6, 2026
Location: Delta Hotel, Grand Okanagan Resort, Kelowna
Mark your calendar - we can't wait to see you there and celebrate our incredible industry together!
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Save the Date | BC Outdoor Recreation Conference 2026
The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC is celebrating 50 years of advocacy in 2026, and we’re marking the occasion in a big way! Join us at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC, for this milestone event.
Dates: May 20-22, 2026
Location: Thompson Rivers University, Kamloops
This conference will bring together outdoor recreation leaders, advocates, and enthusiasts from across British Columbia to reflect on our past, celebrate our achievements, and shape the future of public recreation. Look forward to engaging speakers, insightful panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and valuable networking with recreationists, land managers, and decision-makers.
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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.
#970 - 1050 West Pender Street | Vancouver, BC | V6E 3S7 | 604.685.5956
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