Government of Canada Supports the Canadian National Exhibition

TORONTO, Ontario, August 17, 2009 — The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, today announced the Government of Canada investment of $3.75 million over two years to support the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) as part of the Marquee Tourism Events Program.

“The CNE put forth an ambitious proposal to attract more visitors to Toronto this year,” said Minister Clement. “We are supportive of the endeavours of all Canadian festivals to promote tourism in Canada, particularly during this summer where we have seen a decline in out-of-country visitors to Canada. Funding from our Marquee Tourism Events Program has led to improved ticket sales, the extension of event dates and expanded program offerings it is enhancing our tourism industry when it is needed most.”

 “The CNE is very grateful for this support from the Government of Canada,” said David Bednar, General Manager, Canadian National Exhibition. “Marquee Tourism Events Program funds will significantly enhance our activities and attractions to encourage visitors from far and near to join in the celebration of community that is the great tradition of the Ex.”

Each year, the CNE offers a wide variety of entertainment and events, midway rides and games, a working farm, parades and sports, international food and shopping, a children’s recreation area, and a three-day airshow.

Funding from the Marquee Tourism Events Program will allow the CNE to bring world-class soccer teams from Portugal and Scotland to Toronto during the event; add marquee names to existing entertainment programming; present an international speaker series; increase its marketing efforts in Canada and the United States; and initiate a two-year project to introduce on-the-ground transportation for visitors, which will be completed in time for the 2010 CNE.

The Government of Canada’s Marquee Tourism Events Program is investing $100 million over two years to assist events such as this one across the country. This program will help organizers expand the reach of their events and promote Canada as a must-see tourist destination to visitors from around the globe.

The Marquee Tourism Events Program is one of several tourism-related programs announced in Canada’s Economic Action Plan. These programs provide measures to support Canada’s economy, stimulate the growth of tourism and contribute to the development of Canada’s visitor economy over the long term. They include the following:

• $150 million over two years for national parks and historic sites; and
• $40 million over two years to the Canadian Tourism Commission for domestic and international marketing.

For more information, please visit the Marquee Tourism Events Program website or the Canada’s Economic Action Plan website.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Laryssa Waler
A/Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Tony Clement
Minister of Industry
613-995-9001

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502

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