Big ideas wanted on tourism

TORONTO—Former finance minister Greg Sorbara is inviting Ontario residents to dream up ideas for reinventing the province’s tourism industry.
Sorbara is leading a provincial tourism competitiveness study, and is asking the public and industry members to participate either by e-mail, online, or by taking part in a joint industry submission.

Tourism minister Peter Fonseca said soaring fuel prices, confusion about border crossing rules, and the strong Canadian dollar mean Ontario must change its strategy for attracting visitors to stay competitive.
The ministry is asking for feedback on topics such as providing the most desirable tourism experience, marketing Ontario, and how to encourage industry partners to work together.
Sorbara will deliver a report on his findings to the government in early 2009.
The ministry says tourism is a $22.8-billion industry in Ontario, supporting more than 300,000 jobs.