Canada’s Tourism Industry to Contribute to Review of Aviation Security

Ottawa, February 26, 2010 – While disappointed by yesterday’s announcement of an increase to the Air Travellers Security Charge, the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) eagerly anticipates the opportunity to work with government and stakeholders on the announced review of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA).

“We have seen additional taxes and service fees creep into the price of travel to and within Canada, and these additional charges negatively impact on Canada’s ability to compete in the global travel market,” said TIAC Interim President and CEO Wayne St. John. “We can’t afford to underestimate the potential impact of these structural price increases.”

“However, we appreciate the opportunity to participate in a full examination of CATSA’s mandate, as well as the structure and efficiency of this Crown corporation.,” continued St. John. “TIAC firmly believes that maintaining Canada’s competitiveness in the global travel market needs to be a shared objective of the private sector, the government and its agencies.”

TIAC fully supports the need, asserted by Transport Minister John Baird, to keep Canadians safe and secure. An effective and efficient aviation security system which pairs state of the art technology with capable and skilled personnel is an important aspect of maintaining Canada’s security, as well as our status as a world-class destination.

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About the Tourism Industry Association of Canada

The Tourism Industry Association of Canada is the voice of Canadian tourism. Founded in 1930 to encourage the development of tourism in Canada, TIAC serves today as the national private-sector advocate for this $74.7 billion industry, representing the interests of the tourism business community nation-wide.

For more information, please contact:

Kevin Desjardins, Director, Communications
Tourism Industry Association of Canada
Phone: 613.238.6251
Mobile: 613.240.7225
Email : kdesjardins@tiac.travel