News

A look back at October 30th announcement from Lisa MacLeod, Ontario's Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism & Culture. 

The Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Cultural Industries are remarkable. Tourism in Ontario is a $36 billion dollar tourism sector with culture contributing $26.8 billion dollar to the province.

The Ministry oversees the largest volunteer sector in the country.

There are also many job creators in these industries such as festivals, restaurants and craft brewers around the province. The Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Cultural Industries have been hit harder than many other industries. 

Ontario will engage long term in the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Cultural Industries

It will roll out plans over the next 18 months, 3 years and 5 years continually assessing its metrics. Each program is expected to foster a cultural output and meet economic objectives.

• Redevelopment of Ontario Place.
• Community building and enforcing the work of the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
• Modernize honours and awards to best recognize those who better the advancements of their fellow Ontarians.
• Increase volunteering throughout the province
• Strengthen the relationship between The Ministry and provincial sport organizations.
• Leverage relationships with professional sport associations.
• Compete to host global events when it’s safe to do so.
• Expand film friendly locations and work with universities and colleges to advance film and television production.
• Continue to innovate with The Ministry’s other partners, especially in tourism and culture industries.
• Marketing campaigns and travel incentives once it’s safe to travel.

After the provincial budget on Nov. 5, a consultation process will start including a White Paper consultation starting in late November.

There will be a four-week discussion period for the white paper leading up to Christmas. Feedback will shape the five-year plan that will be released and costed by mid-winter.