ST. JOHN’S, N.L. — Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey has established the Premier’s Advisory Council on Tourism. The 14-member council that will focus on providing advice to the provincial government on short-term measures to assist with the sustainability, re-opening and recovery of the province’s tourism sector.
“Tourism is one of our province’s most vital economic drivers. The establishment of this council is essential as we move forward to rebuild the industry from the devastating impacts of COVID-19,” says Furey. “The voices of our tourism operators have been heard and it is my hope that the dedicated work and recommendations of this council will serve to create a successful path to recovery for tourism in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Members of Premier’s Advisory Council on Tourism are:
• Jill Curran, owner, Maxxim Vacations (chair)
• Peter Avery, CEO, St. John’s International Airport Authority
• Amanda Decker-Penton, director of Guest Experience, Fogo Island Inn
• Mike Gatherall, co-owner/operator, Gatherall’s Boat Tours Ltd.
• Barb Genge, president, Tuckamore Lodge Ltd.
• Robbie Hickey, co-owner of Gros Morne Adventures
• Jillian Larkham, director of Tourism, Nunatsiavut Government
• Mark McCarthy, president, McCarthy’s Party Tours and Convention Services
• Heather McKinnon, GM, Delta St. John’s Hotel and Conference Centre
• John Norman, mayor, Town of Bonavista
• Brenda O’Reilly, co-owner/operator, O’Reilly’s Irish Newfoundland Pub, Mussels on the Corner, Yellowbelly Brewery & Public House, and YellowBelly St. John’s International Airport
• Tammy Priddle, president and CEO, Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority
• Andy Turnbull, CEO, Nunacor Development Corporation
• Todd Wight, co-owner/GM, Ocean View Hotel
“We are a group of people who have built businesses from pure innovation here in Newfoundland and Labrador,” says Curran. “This innovation is now called upon as we gather as a council to look at not only the immediate needs for our industry, but the opportunities for the future. Tourism has the ability to be a game changer in our economy. Our growth and success is built upon showing the world who we are.”
The council is set to deliver recommendations on short-term actions and initiatives to support the sector through continuing pandemic restrictions, as well as after restrictions begin to lift, in May. The council will also provide advice and support to the tourism board, for the renewal of the province’s Tourism Vision and Strategy.
