WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government is creating a new Hospitality Relief Sector Program with an investment of $8 million, which will provide financial relief to Manitoba’s accommodation and tourism sector.
“Manitoba’s tourism sector — a key contributor to the province’s economy — has been significantly impacted by a reduction in domestic and international travel and other restrictions that were necessary to protect Manitobans and all Canadians from the spread of COVID-19,” says Premier Brian Pallister. “We recognize that these businesses have made significant sacrifices in order to protect their community. We are committed to helping them through this challenging and unpredictable time and to help position them for recovery.”
The new Hospitality Relief Sector Program, to be administered by the Manitoba Hotel Association and the Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association (MLOA), will provide funding to hotels and full-time licenced resource-tourism operators for fixed costs that have not been covered by other relief programs. These expenses include property insurance, mortgage interest, property taxes, land leases, service fees, maintenance of camps and resource-retention costs.
Grants will be provided as a reimbursement for a percentage of eligible expenses incurred. More information on the new program and how to apply will be made available for eligible applicants shortly.
“This funding will provide a much-needed lifeline for the Lodges and Outfitters of Manitoba,” says DJ Seales, president, MLOA. “With the nature of this industry, many are facing a second year of no business due to the border being closed. MLOA would like to thank the province for partnering with and supporting these businesses and this industry during these uncertain times.”
“We thank the government for recognizing that hotels have been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic and that we need help,” adds Scott Jocelyn, president and CEO, Manitoba Hotel Association. “This program will be provide much-needed assistance for the hotel industry, which has been one of the most impacted industries and will be one of the last to recover.”
