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The original owner of my house installed such an elaborate heating system, it could have met the needs of our entire cul-de-sac let alone a single-family home. The utility room was jammed full of copper pipes, a hot water tank, an electrical panel, and a massive boiler powered by natural gas. And while I appreciated the consistent temperatures, low energy bills, no furnace filters to replace or ducts to clean, my hydronic heating system was unreliable and required frequent repairs to the point where my plumber was on speed dial.
One cold winter day when he arrived in a new Mercedes Sprinter van for yet another service call, I was finally convinced to replace the complex heating infrastructure with a high efficiency boiler that took up a quarter of the space and would pay for itself in a few years through energy savings and little-to-no maintenance.
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It should be noted that the new system was installed prior to the widespread promotion and adoption of heat pumps, as well as the introduction of provincial and municipal regulations vis-a-vis natural gas usage.
I reflected on my boiler experience while attending Fortis BC’s Future Energy Landscape conference this week where attendees heard several experts discuss opportunities, advancements, and issues surrounding energy within the context of provincial climate change objectives, sustainability measures, affordability, and other considerations. The information presented prompted me to contemplate the implications for the tourism sector and TIABC’s role on this file.
Seems the topic of energy is front and centre these days. Whether it’s related to fast-tracking major project approvals (e.g. pipelines), tariffs, personal consumption, types of power systems, carbon taxes, new technology, electrification, sustainable aviation fuel, new regulations or bylaws, it’s a subject that is hard to ignore. Even the mandate letters issued to several cabinet ministers specifically mention goals for energy transition, low-cost energy, approvals for clean & low-carbon energy infrastructure, and more.
As one might expect at a Fortis BC-hosted forum, a major focus was on renewable natural gas, (RNG) which one speaker suggested is as integral to the gas grid as wind and solar is to the electrical grid. In simple terms, RNG is essentially the same as natural gas but sourced differently from waste like manure, sewer sludge, and landfills where emissions are captured and converted to renewable natural gas.
For the record, other experts at the workshop highlighted the use of hydrogen, solar and thermal energy, electricity, and gas-powered heat pumps as options for owners of homes, commercial buildings and manufacturers to consider. Suffice it to say, I’m learning more about energy than I ever imagined to help inform eventual TIABC policy work in this space.
One key takeaway from the conference referenced data by economists that showed when energy prices increase by 10%, economic growth drops by 15%. If that’s true, then it’s yet another reason for BC’s tourism industry to stay on top of the evolving energy landscape to not only encourage all levels of government to advance policies that lead our province to a more sustainable future, but also to ensure that all forms of available energy are clean, abundant, and of course affordable.
When a zone valve on my boiler system malfunctioned in late fall, I renewed acquaintances with my plumber who promptly fixed the problem. But when it happened again a couple of weeks ago, I pulled out my power-sucking, portable electric heater as a stop-gap measure until my favourite tradesman returned from Hawaii. While I have yet to review my Hydro bill (or plumber's invoice), at the very least I am grateful for an alternate energy source I can access during emergencies to stay warm on those cold winter days when my high efficiency boiler shuts down.
Walt Judas
CEO, TIABC
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Stay updated on the latest news and developments by checking out this week's compilation of important matters impacting and influencing our industry. | |
JUST RELEASED | Unlock the Power of Generative Al in Tourism Workshop Series
TIABC and Tourism AI Network are partnering together to empower BC's tourism professionals with AI training by offering an opportunity to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the tourism industry.
Join Peter Pilarski from Tourism AI Network for this 6-part virtual workshop series:
- March 10: AI in Action: Foundations of Generative AI
- March 14: AI in Action: Unlocking ChatGPT’s Potential
- March 18: AI in Action: Harnessing AI for Personal Productivity
- April 7: Unlock the Power of Your Data with Effective Governance
- April 10: Unlock the Power of AI to Elevate Customer Service in Tourism
- April 11: Marketing Applications of Generative AI in Tourism
Workshops are open to everyone. Attend one session or the full series and gain practical tools to drive your success in tourism.
Cost: $149 CAD per session. Seats are limited! Learn more and register in the link below.
Note: TIABC members enjoy special savings: Use promo code TIABC10 for a 10% discount on individual sessions or TIABC15 for a 15% discount on the full series bundle.
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Prime Minister Announces Change to Tourism Ministry
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage, will act concurrently as Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec.
Former Tourism Minister Soraya Martinez Ferrada has resigned from cabinet and says she intends to run to become mayor of Montreal.
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Destination BC Releases its 2025 Global Marketing Plan
Destination BC (DBC) is pleased to share its new Global Marketing Plan. 2025 is considered to be a defining year for the Super, Natural British Columbia® brand family as DBC looks to strengthen British Columbia's position in the global travel marketplace. With a refreshed brand and newly defined product offerings, DBC is ready to re-emerge with a clear focus on building brand equity with global travellers.
Distribution of this document is limited to BC tourism businesses and BC destination marketing organizations only, as it contains proprietary information. For questions or to request a copy of the plan, please contact the Global Marketing team at Marketing.Plan@destinationbc.ca.
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ITBC Launches Authentic Indigenous Program
Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) has launched a new program aimed at connecting to an authentic Indigenous experience or visiting an Indigenous-owned business.
The Authentic Indigenous designation highlights businesses that provide genuine cultural experiences, support their communities, and prioritize sustainability. This means visitors can engage with Indigenous cultures meaningfully and respectfully, knowing their visit helps preserve traditions, empower local communities, and protect the environment.
When booking an Authentic Indigenous experience or visiting an Indigenous-owned business, your travel choice directly contributes to an Indigenous-led movement toward increased well-being for First Nations, Metis, and Inuit Peoples in BC through tourism.
Learn more HERE.
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RFP | Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association
Feasibility Study for Solutions to House Rural Workforce in Tourism
Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism (CCCT) invites proposals from experienced consultants to undertake a thorough feasibility study for seasonal employee housing. This study will encompass the collection of comprehensive information and real-time statistics of the housing gap facing the tourism sector in the CCCT region of BC and include a focus on seasonal employees. The study will also call for an exploration of innovative solutions for seasonal rural housing and investigate potential avenues for housing solutions for the rural workforce in tourism.
Proposal Submission Deadline: February 12
Contact: Amy, amy@landwithoutlimits.com or Marra, projects@landwithoutlimits.com, for more information
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In Memoriam | Robin Sharpe
We were saddened to hear the news of the passing of Robin Sharpe earlier this week, a beloved figure to the Barkerville family and the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region.
Robin’s journey brought him to the Cariboo, where he dedicated over 26 years to Barkerville Historic Town & Park. From his early days with BC Parks to his leadership as manager of Visitor Services at Barkerville, Robin’s passion for the area and its history left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
In 2010, he went on to serve as Mayor of Wells for two terms, and he remained active on various boards and committees, giving back to the community he loved in many ways.
We wish to extend our deep condolences to the family of Robin and the Barkerville family during this difficult time.
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Attention All BC Tourism Businesses | Destination BC BCTCRI Business Survey
Destination BC is inviting all tourism businesses to participate in the first-ever Tourism Climate Adaptation and Environmental Sustainability Business Survey. Through this survey, you will have the opportunity to help inform climate adaptation and environmental sustainability program needs and the path forward, together.
Your input will help shape a custom report for each region in the province. The survey will take about 5-10 minutes to complete. To thank you for your participation, you will be entered into a draw for three entry passes to a BC tourism conference.
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QUESTION:
Despite a one-month reprieve, tell us the likely impact of
impending cross-border tariffs on your business.
TIABC's One Minute Monitor (OMM) is a short survey deployed as necessary to help us better understand your views on pressing issues and to help inform policy development and prioritize advocacy activities.
CONFIDENTIALITY
We respect the confidentiality of the data provided and therefore will not publish responses by any individual or organization. All responses are anonymous and will be reported in aggregate only.
Thank you for taking a moment of your time today and take the quick survey below.
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The Tourism Industry Association of BC (TIABC) is seeking input from its members and stakeholders to assess the level of satisfaction with the leadership that TIABC provides to the tourism industry, and to gain further knowledge from your insights and responses to each section of the survey to help shape our future direction, provide more value for members, and ensure our effectiveness as advocates for BC's visitor economy.
The survey will take approximately 12 minutes to complete. We respectfully request your response by end of day, Friday, February 7th.
We thank you in advance for taking the time to complete the survey. Your feedback and openness is very much appreciated. We will be sharing these results with you in the months ahead. NOTE: - Survey respondents have a chance to win a two-night stay at Crystal Cove Beach Resort in Tofino.
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We’re hard at work at finalizing details to the 2025 conference program. Expect exceptional sessions by our valued partners at Destination BC, Indigenous Tourism BC, and Destination Canada, along with an outstanding selection of breakout sessions that will provide tools & insights, highlight innovations, and spark thought-provoking discussions.
Book your hotel room today!
A room block has been secured at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre to provide convenient and comfortable accommodations for attendees of the 2025 BC Tourism Industry Conference. Be sure to book your room early to take advantage of special rates.
Be sure to reserve your room before Monday, February 10th! After this date, reservations and rates are subject to availability.
Detailed programming including updates on keynote speakers, engaging sessions and networking opportunities are available on the conference website.
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We value our members and are excited to share with them the latest news, successes, and achievements! | |
TIABC Responds to Industry's Hope for Boost in Visitors During Trump Presidency
In an interview with CTV News last week, TIABC CEO Walt Judas commented on the outlook for BC's tourism industry during the Trump presidency and emphasized that out-of-country visitors are a vital part of BC's economy.
Read more and watch the interview HERE.
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We value our members and are excited to share with them the latest news, successes, and achievements! | |
WGBC Release Communications and PR Plan
Considering the July 25, 2024 provincial government announcement granting temporary relief for BC wineries to incorporate out-of-province grapes for the 2024 vintage, Wine Growers British Columbia (WGBC) has developed a strategic communication and PR plan to support the wine industry through this transitional period.
The Vintage 2024 Relief and Support Crafted in BC Wines Communications & PR Plan is a strategic initiative by WGBC to support the BC wine industry through the challenges posed by the 2024 vintage.
The plan sets clear goals to protect the BC wine brand, sustain industry operations, and facilitate a phased return to 100% BC grapes. Targeted strategies include empowering wineries with storytelling tools, nurturing collaboration, and engaging key audiences.
Access the Communications & PR Plan HERE.
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Sport Fishing Institute of BC Update on Winter Chinook and 2025 Salmon Prospects
According to the Sport Fishing Institute of BC and the recently released preliminary report from DFO, there is exceptional fishing to be had for Chinook salmon and a promising indication of what they hope will continue along the BC coast as the spring and summer season approaches. Here are the highlights:
- Lower Fraser Falls, Shuswap, East Coast Vancouver Island (ECVI) enhanced, Cowichan, and West Coast VI enhanced stocks are all predicted to return at high levels of abundance and should provide excellent angling opportunities throughout the province.
- Coho are showing reasonable to excellent trends coast wide, with notable abundance already present in Georgia Strait.
- 2025 is an “on year” for Fraser Pink salmon and are anticipated to return in significant abundance that should provide excellent opportunity for ocean anglers and abundance driven opportunity in river.
- Both Skeena and Alberni Inlet Sockeye should produce great fishing opportunity for anglers in 2025.
To summarize, there is plenty to look forward to in 2025.
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Wellness Travel BC Embracing the Season with New Partnerships & Unforgettable Experiences
As winter settles over beautiful British Columbia, Wellness Travel BC is excited to announce their newest partners that are redefining the art of relaxation, rejuvenation, and cultural adventure.
Learn more about their partnerships by browsing their updated Wellness Travel Directory HERE.
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POLARIS ADVISORY
Polaris Advisory delivers on projects encompassing construction, renovation, rebranding, pre-opening, and concept development for hotels and restaurants.
Polaris guides clients in identifying and engaging the right people at the right time with the right resources, helping to achieve goals and outcomes quickly. Their adeptness is in shaping and executing organizational vision and strategy,
Learn more about Polaris Advisory HERE.
Photo: Courtesy of Tourism Kelowna
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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.
Contact info@tiabc.ca for more information, visit our website HERE or the link below.
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go2HR | Developing Supportive Managers and Supervisors
Psychological Health and Safety
Date: February 11
Time: 10:00 am - 10:30 am (PST)
Managers and supervisors are key to shaping a psychologically safe workplace. Their ability to gather feedback, offer guidance and make informed decisions directly impacts employee well-being and ensures that psychological health and safety principles are embraced across the organization. The session will provide practical tools and strategies to help develop the skills necessary for managers and supervisors to foster a healthier, safer work environment.
Learn more and register HERE.
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BCTCRI Workshop #7: Marketing & Storytelling
Join Destination BC for the Community Destination Stewardship Initiative's upcoming workshop on Marketing & Storytelling in the context of climate resilience in the tourism industry. Through this workshop, participants will learn about the powerful impact of marketing and storytelling in advocating for climate resilience in the tourism industry.
Date: February 19
Time: 10:00 am (PST)
Register HERE.
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CONFERENCES & SPECIAL EVENTS | |
Destination BC | Tourism Digital Academy
The Tourism Digital Academy is a FREE, 8-week digital marketing program for BC tourism businesses who are interested in building their knowledge and skills in digital marketing to an intermediate level.
Designed for business owners or their marketing team members, this comprehensive program is focused on providing practical, actionable guidance to complete your digital marketing plan. From setting your goals, to building a better SEO, website usability, content, email marketing, analytics and more. You'll leave the program with the confidence and knowledge to put that plan into action. There are two intakes:
Dates: January 21 - March 12 and January 29 - March 19
Learn more and register HERE.
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Dine Out Vancouver is Back
Sip, savour and sous vide your way through Canada’s largest food and drink festival. Experience curated fixed-price menus at over 350 of Vancouver’s hottest restaurants and discover unique culinary events that span everything from sea foraging to dumpling fests.
Dates: January 22 - February 9, various locations throughout Metro Vancouver
Learn more about the Dine Out Vancouver participants and events HERE.
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Coldsnap | Prince George Winter Music Festival
The 18th annual Prince George Winter Music Festival "Coldsnap" is returning! Audiences can expect amazing live music events in a variety of venues across Prince George every day of the festival!
Dates: February 5-9, various locations
Learn more about the festival schedule, how to purchase tickets and lineup of exceptional performers HERE.
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RiSE | Capilano University's School of Tourism Management Annual Celebration
Industry partners are invited to join Capilano University's School of Tourism Management for their annual celebration - RiSE. Organized by the tourism and recreation student association, this event connects students, alumni, and industry partners while celebrating the vibrancy of Vancouver’s tourism industry. This year’s theme is "Tourism in Vancouver", which highlight the diverse offerings that the lower mainland has to offer for people visiting our beloved city.
Date: Monday, February 10
Location: JW Marriott Parq Vancouver, Kitsilano Ballroom (39 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC)
Time: Registration starts at 5:00 PM
Dress Code: Business Casual
Tickets are free or by donation and include a complimentary beverage, food, prizes and more. Help celebrate the local tourism industry while networking with students, alumni, faculty members, and tourism professionals! Note to Industry: Use the promo code RISECOMPLIMENTARY to receive a free ticket to this event.
For more information, reach out to joannajagger@capilanou.ca
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Malahat SkyWalk Family Day Weekend
Looking for the best thing to do on Vancouver Island this Family Day weekend? Look no further! At Malahat SkyWalk, they are offering 50% off single admission tickets so you can enjoy live music, and views so good, they’ll leave you speechless (but your camera roll full). Pack up the family, lace up your comfy shoes, and let’s make some memories in the treetops!
Dates: February 14-17
Learn more about the weekend activities HERE.
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Okanagan Winter Wine Festival
This winter, the Okanagan is serving up two spectacular wine events that promise unforgettable moments, exquisite flavours, and world-class wines!
Taste Lake Country
Date: February 22
Time: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
Location: Scenic Sip Route
Winter Sips North
Date: March 1
Time: 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Location: Hotel Eldorado, Kelowna
Learn more about these events and purchase tickets HERE.
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Sunshine Coast Flavour Festival
Indulge in 10 days of culinary adventures from Gibsons to Lund. Enjoy exclusive menus, special offers, and unique events from over 35 local food and drink artisans, including restaurants, cafes, tasting rooms, food trucks, and specialty shops. This is your chance to sip, savour, and celebrate the vibrant culinary scene of the Sunshine Coast.
Dates: February 28 - March 9
Learn more HERE.
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SPARK! - BC Liquor and Cannabis Conference |
ABLE BC is excited to announce the highly anticipated, third annual SPARK conference returns revamped and revived with a focus on liquor primaries, private liquor stores, and now private cannabis stores. SPARK is being held in conjunction with the annual BC Tourism Industry Conference.
Date: March 5
Location: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre
Get pumped for a full day of advocacy updates, networking with like-minded business owners, and learning from industry experts in the liquor and cannabis fields. Learn more and register HERE.
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Flourish 2025
Flourish is Vancouver Community College (VCC) Foundation's annual fundraising experience. It’s an opportunity to come together to support their students as they change their lives through the power of real learning and hands-on education.
Join in for an evening of food and wine, and help the community thrive.
Date: March 5
Time: 7:00 - 10:00 pm
Location: VCC Broadway Campus, 1120 E. 7th Ave., Vancouver
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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WORTH Leadership Summit
Join WORTH for Western Canada’s only summit dedicated to women in recreation, tourism, and hospitality—an inspiring event designed to uplift women, elevate organizations, and drive progress across our industry.
Date: March 11
Location: Westin Bayshore, Vancouver
Held on the week of International Women’s Day, the WORTH Leadership Summit is for anyone dedicated to uplifting women in recreation, tourism, and hospitality—regardless of gender. Whether you’re a manager, entrepreneur, or aspiring leader, the Summit offers valuable insights and connections to fuel your growth.
TIABC members use discount code TIABC10 for a 10% discount on registration.
Discount Code: TIABC10
Learn more and register HERE.
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Guide Symposium
Join the Commercial Bear Viewing association and the Marine Guides Association of Canada for two days of inspiring talks, skill-building workshops, and lively discussions on elevating the art of guiding.
Connect with fellow guides, share stories, and build lasting friendships.
Dates: March 15-16
Location: Vic Theatre, Victoria
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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Mark Your Calendars — BCHA Summit
The 2025 BCHA Summit is returning to Vancouver! The Summit brings together a distinguished gathering of hospitality industry leaders, including hoteliers, chief decision makers, and key stakeholders from across British Columbia.
Date: April 22-23
Location: Westin Bayshore, Vancouver.
The BCHA Summit offers a dynamic program, Marketplace with 50+ exhibitors, and the prestigious Awards of Excellence.
Visit the conference website and learn more HERE
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2025 Pig Out Festival
For those who are already dreaming of spring, this much-loved food and wine event is returning to the heart of Oliver Osoyoos Wine Country set against the stunning vineyard backdrop of Cellar Door and More.
Date: May 3
Location: Cellar Door Winery (and more)
The 2025 theme, “When Pigs Fly,” takes the festivities to new heights by incorporating creative poultry-inspired dishes, crafted by talented local and guest chefs.
Learn more and purchase tickets HERE.
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BC Chamber of Commerce AGM & Conference
Join us in Nanaimo to explore this vibrant urban centre found on the east side of beautiful Vancouver Island, located on the traditional territories of the Coast Salish Peoples - Snuneymuxw, Snaw-naw-as, and Stz'uminus.
Date: June 3-5
Location: Vancouver Island Conference Centre, Nanaimo
Connect with Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade executives, business leaders and association stakeholders from across the province who play a key role in shaping policy, fostering networking opportunities
and driving economic growth throughout British Columbia.
More information and registration to be available soon!
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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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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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