Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning hotels, restaurants, event and sports venues, cruise lines, casinos, gambling, theme parks, ski resorts, outdoor spaces, RV parks, and other travel and tourism professionals.

Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

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Start Date: 2025-03-16
End Date: 2025-03-22

Top Headlines

Main Stories

FedNor Commits $1.8 Million for Business and Adventure Tourism in Northern Ontario

On March 21, Terry Sheehan, MP for Sault Ste. Marie, announced FedNor’s investment of $1,825,250 in the Superior East and Algoma areas. $1.6 million will support the Superior East Community Futures Development Corporation, aiding small and medium-sized businesses and community planning. The remaining $225,250 will enhance Windy Point Lodge, a fly-in fishing and hunting destination, expanding its capacity and regional tourism appeal.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Increase in US Resident Trips to Canada

StatsCan reported a 20.8% rise in trips to Canada by US residents in January, reaching 1.1 million trips. However, overseas visits to Canada continued a downward trend for the fourth consecutive month since October 2024.

Sources: Open Government Data Set: www.statcan.gc.ca

Canada Invests in Cape Breton Coastal Trail

On March 21, a $3 million investment by the Government of Canada was announced for the Jajiktek Seawall Hiking Trail in Cape Breton. This initiative, led by MP Mike Kelloway, will develop a 50-kilometer trail with overnight huts, aiming to boost eco-friendly tourism and year-round recreational opportunities.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Federal Support for Acadian Culture in Prince Edward Island

Bobby Morrissey, MP for Egmont, announced on March 21 a federal investment of $284,200 to upgrade the Village musical acadien, promoting Acadian heritage in P.E.I. Enhancements include property improvements and energy-efficient lighting, aimed at enriching visitor experiences and sustaining the region’s cultural tourism.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Provincial Announcements

Alberta Supports Indigenous Business Growth

The Aboriginal Business Investment Fund continues to propel Indigenous businesses, with a $10 million annual budget set for 2025, fostering economic development in Alberta.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.alberta.ca

Saskatchewan Budget Enhances Community Programs

Saskatchewan's 2025-26 budget introduces new investments, including enhanced playground funding and expanded tax credits for families, aiming to improve community wellbeing.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.saskatchewan.ca

Public Officials' Social Media

MP Jasraj Singh Hallan Congratulates New Business Openings

MP Jasraj Singh Hallan congratulated Gill International Travel, Chai Bar, and OK Pizza on their openings in Calgary, emphasizing Conservative support for small businesses.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Terry Sheehan Highlights Economic Investments in Wawa

MP Terry Sheehan celebrated FedNor funding for local businesses and tourism enhancements in Wawa, Ontario, aiming to boost economic growth and job creation.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Ken Hardie Comments on US Travel Ad Impact

MP Ken Hardie noted the impact of US travel ads during a CNN broadcast, suggesting Canadian hospitality may be affected by international relations.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

What We're Reading This Week

• Ontario Hospitality Industry Wants 'Staycation' Tax Credit: Calls for reinstatement amid tariffs.
• Vinay Menon: Feel like tipping is out of control?: Canadians frustrated with gratuity norms.
• Haman Group Selects Flywire: New international payments partnership.