Minister of State Bernier Encourages Canadians to Vote for the Bay of Fundy in the New 7 Wonders of Nature Competition

Ottawa, November 7, 2011—The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism), today issued the following statement encouraging Canadians to vote for Atlantic Canada's Bay of Fundy in global tourism competition to name the New 7 Wonders of Nature:

"Our government is extremely pleased that the Bay of Fundy has been named one of the contest's 28 finalists. This stunning natural attraction deserves the international recognition it has earned to date, and I encourage my fellow Canadians to cast their votes online in order to raise its profile even higher.

"We are facing strong competition from many internationally renowned tourist attractions. This is our chance to shine the global spotlight on one of the many natural wonders that make Canada a preferred tourism destination. Recognition of a strong tourism attraction, such as the Bay of Fundy, encourages investment and attracts visitors to all regions of Canada.

"I call on Canadians from coast to coast to coast to cast their vote for the Bay of Fundy by visiting the competition's website. This is the last week to vote for the Bay of Fundy, as the winners will be announced on Friday, November 11, 2011."

The Bay of Fundy is one of Canada's natural wonders, a 270-kilometre long ocean bay that is home to the highest tides in the world, rising as much as 50 feet twice a day. Located between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, the bay is home to a diverse marine ecosystem and a breathtaking geographical landscape. It was also recently named one of the world's top destinations in 2012 by Frommer's, a globally recognized travel guide company.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Scott French
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Maxime Bernier
Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism)
613-943-6183

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502