Volunteers Sought for Tourism Council

Tourism operators interested in helping shape how the province attracts and keeps visitors may want to apply for a volunteer position with the Nova Scotia Tourism Partnership Council.

"The council is a successful model of industry and government working together to develop, market and showcase the best of Nova Scotia," said Doug Fawthrop, chair of the council and managing director of White Point Beach Resort. "We have many significant accomplishments under our belt and we're looking for energetic people to help ensure our success continues."

Since its establishment two years ago, the council has two years of marketing plans behind it and a third in the works. The 2000 plan focuses on extending the season, growing select niche markets like golf, promoting mega-events such as the Tall Ships, as well as taking Canada's seacoast to the world using the Internet. The council is also busy on other fronts, including updating the 1996 Tourism Strategy for Nova Scotia. This updated strategy will integrate both marketing and tourism development programming.

"Our government is committed to strengthening the Tourism Partnership Council," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism and Culture. "It's critical that we have the private sector as an equal partner in determining the direction that government takes."

The council, established in May of 1998, includes 14 industry leaders and two representatives from Nova Scotia Tourism and Culture. The team plans the provincial marketing and development programs. The mission is to increase tourist visits and dollars spent in Nova Scotia by sharing decisions, responsibilities and resources.

Members of the council should be industry leaders and owners or operators of tourism-related businesses and bring a provincewide perspective to the table. Members should also be supportive of and participate in council programs. In addition they must be committed to the process and able to attend meetings on a regular basis.

An industry-led selection committee will review and recommend applicants to the council and then to the minister of tourism and culture. Council members will be expected to serve for two years. Applicants should submit a resume outlining their qualifications and relevant experience, together with a covering letter, to: Secretary to the Executive Council, PO Box 2125, One Government Place, 1700 Granville St., Halifax, NS B3J 3N7. The application deadline is May 26, 2000. For additional information, please contact Peggy Tibbo-Cameron at 902-424-0048, fax 902-424-0723, or e-mail [email protected] .