Government of Canada announces funding to improve international connections at Halifax Stanfield International Airport
News release
June 26, 2024 Halifax, Nova Scotia Transport Canada
The Government of Canada is making sure communities have the infrastructure they need to grow, build more homes, and keep connected across our country.
Today, the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, Sean Fraser, on behalf of the Minister of Transport, Pablo Rodriguez, announced a new investment of up to $8.3 million for a project at Halifax Stanfield International Airport, to increase the number of international and domestic passenger flights.
The project consists of building a new international connections facility at Halifax Stanfield International Airport. This will improve the connections process, making it faster and easier for passengers arriving in Canada from international flights as well as those connecting to other domestic destinations. This will also result in additional cargo hold capacity, to increase the movement of goods between Nova Scotia and international markets.
Improving passenger connectivity, facilitating trade, while making economic and environmental improvements, contributes to building vibrant communities in Atlantic Canada, with the infrastructure they need to grow.
Quotes
“Today’s $8.3 million investment will help build vibrant communities with the infrastructure they need to grow. This project’s focus on improving passenger connectivity will provide more options for travellers and and make Halifax Airport an even more important transportation hub.”
The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez
Minister of Transport
“Strong supply chains result in a strong economy that benefits all Canadians. The new international connections facility at the Halifax Airport will not only support this by bolstering trade between Nova Scotia and international markets but will also create more than 4,000 jobs.”
The Honourable Sean Fraser
Minister, Housing, Infrastructure and Communities
“We are grateful for the financial support we received from Transport Canada’s National Trade Corridors Fund to help build our new International Connections Facility. This expanded facility will help us attract more international air services to Halifax, which will increase our overall cargo capacity, enhance our global connectivity and accelerate regional economic growth. Together, we are finding innovative ways to ensure the safe, secure and efficient movement of people and goods.”
Joyce Carter
President & CEO, Halifax International Airport Authority
Quick facts
- By 2034, the project will create more than 4,000 direct and indirect jobs, resulting from increasing both passenger and cargo handling capacity. The project will also contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Through the National Trade Corridors Fund, the Government of Canada is investing to help goods move smoothly throughout Canada’s supply chains.
- The National Trade Corridors Fund is a competitive, merit-based program designed to help infrastructure owners and users invest in the critical transportation assets that support economic activity in Canada. A total of $4.1 billion has been committed to meritorious projects since the program’s inception.
- Through the National Trade Corridors Fund, Transport Canada is supporting improvements to Canada’s roads, rail, air, and marine shipping routes to foster domestic and international trade.
Related products
Contacts
Laurent de Casanove
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Pablo Rodriguez
Minister of Transport, Ottawa
laurent.decasanove@tc.gc.ca
Media relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055
media@tc.gc.ca
The Atlantic Canada Agreement on Tourism (ACAT) is a highly successful tourism marketing initiative that brings together the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the provincial departments responsible for tourism in New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, and the four provincial Tourism Industry Associations in Atlantic Canada.
The collective approach combines limited resources to co-invest in market research and to generate marketing efficiencies, mainly through specific travel trade, media relations and airline partnership activities in common markets. ACAT’s collaborative focus is on the United States, United Kingdom and Germany markets to promote the four provinces as a leading vacation destination and grow tourism for the region.
The Atlantic Canada team have been hard at work implementing activities of this year’s marketing plan. Kelley Keefe, ACAT Program Manager has just returned from Rendez-vous Canada’s tourism marketplace where she met one-on-one with international travel trade buyers – one of numerous touch points in developing joint marketing partnerships and new product with key tour operators. ACAT’s US and UK in-market media relations agencies have been engaging in networking opportunities and meetings with media to pitch stories, securing media visits and content creator trips to experience the region’s tourism product firsthand.
Stay tuned to your tourism industry association e-newsletters and their social media channels for more details to come.
This project has been made possible through funding provided by the Atlantic Canada Agreement on Tourism (ACAT). ACAT is a nine-member pan-Atlantic initiative comprised of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the four Atlantic Canada Tourism Industry Associations, and the four Provincial Departments responsible for tourism.
Le saviez-vous?
L’Entente sur le tourisme dans la région de l’Atlantique (ETRA) est une initiative couronnée de succès en matière de marketing touristique. Celle-ci regroupe l’Agence de promotion économique du Canada atlantique (APECA), les ministères provinciaux responsables du tourisme à Terre-Neuve-et-Labrador, en Nouvelle-Écosse, au Nouveau-Brunswick et à l’Île-du-Prince-Édouard, ainsi que les quatre associations de l’industrie touristique provinciales.
Grâce à une approche collective, ces entités combinent leurs ressources limitées, co-investissent dans des études de marché et réalisent des gains d’efficacité, principalement dans les sphères propres au commerce du voyage, aux relations de presse et aux activités en partenariat avec des compagnies aériennes dans les marchés communs. Les marchés américains, britanniques et allemands sont au centre des opérations collaboratives de l’ETRA, qui vise à promouvoir les quatre provinces comme destination vacances de premier choix et à développer le tourisme dans la région.
L’équipe du Canada Atlantique a travaillé fort pour mettre en œuvre le plan de marketing de cette année. La gestionnaire de programme d’ETRA, Kelley Keefe, s’est rendue à la foire du tourisme Rendez-vous Canada, où elle a discuté personnellement avec des acheteurs internationaux du commerce du voyage – soit l’une des nombreuses occasions de contact permettant l’établissement de partenariats de marketing ou de nouveaux produits avec des voyagistes clés. Les agences de relations de presse d’ETRA dans les marchés américains et britanniques participent aux événements de réseautage et aux rencontres avec les médias pour présenter des histoires, assurer la visite des médias et proposer aux créateurs et créatrices de contenu des voyages pour découvrir les produits touristiques de la région.
Restez à l’affût des infolettres et des médias sociaux de votre association de l’industrie touristique pour les détails à venir.
Ce projet est rendu possible grâce au financement de l’Entente sur le tourisme dans la région de l’Atlantique (ETRA). L’ETRA est une initiative panatlantique qui compte neuf membres, soit l’Agence de promotion économique du Canada atlantique, les quatre associations provinciales de l’industrie touristique et les quatre ministères provinciaux responsables du tourisme.
]]>You can view or download presentations from HIAA/Halifax Stanfield, Efficiency Nova Scotia and Tourism Nova Scotia.
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April 16, 2024
TIAC Talk – SPECIAL EDITION – Budget 2024
Fiscal Outlook and Key Investments
• The government projects a $40 billion deficit for this fiscal year. Significant new spending includes $8.5 billion allocated for housing initiatives aimed at addressing affordability and availability. The budget also introduces a $6 billion disability benefit and a $1 billion school food program, which are designed to support vulnerable populations and improve health and education outcomes for children.
• An increase in capital gains taxes is projected to generate an additional $19 billion in revenue, aligning with efforts to increase fiscal sustainability and fund critical social programs.
Supporting Indigenous Economic Opportunities in Tourism
• The budget proposes a $2.5 million allocation in 2024-25 to continue supporting the Indigenous tourism industry through the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada.
Conservation and Parks
• A commitment of $156.7 million over five years will support capital investments in national parks, national marine conservation areas, and historic sites to ensure their preservation and accessibility for future generations.
• New projects include the Pituamkek National Park Reserve on Prince Edward Island and the Central Coast National Marine Conservation Area in British Columbia, with respective funding of $71.9 million over 12 years and $109.6 million over 11 years, focusing on conserving biodiversity and boosting eco-tourism.
Employment and Labour Initiatives
• Employment Insurance will be extended for seasonal workers in targeted regions until October 2026, with an estimated cost of $263.5 million over four years. This extension supports workers in seasonal industries by providing financial stability between work periods.
• The Youth Employment and Skills Strategy will receive $351.2 million in 2025-26 to create 90,000 job placements and employment opportunities for youth. This includes significant investments in the Canada Summer Jobs program and other initiatives to tackle critical labor shortages and provide valuable work experience.These investments in youth job opportunities include:
• $200.5 million in 2025-26, for Canada Summer Jobs to provide well-paying summer job opportunities, including in sectors facing critical labour shortages, such as housing construction.
• $150.7 million in 2025-26, for the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy Program to provide job placements and employment supports to youth.
Cultural Investments and Heritage
• The Canada Arts Presentation Fund will receive $31 million over two years to support arts festivals and performing arts series across the country. This funding will support diverse cultural events like La TOHU’s Festival Montréal Complètement Cirque and the Vancouver Fringe Festival, enhancing the cultural landscape and attracting tourism.
• $23 million over three years will support the Toronto International Film Festival, and $15 million will assist the Shaw Festival Theatre’s expansion, reinforcing Canada’s position in the global arts scene.
Infrastructure and Transportation
• Starting in 2026-27, the government will provide $3 billion per year in permanent funding for public transit projects across the country, enhancing connectivity and reducing carbon emissions.
• VIA Rail will receive $462.4 million over five years to support network operations and an undisclosed amount to replace its aging fleet, ensuring reliable and efficient passenger service outside the Quebec City-Windsor corridor.
High Frequency Rail
• Proposed legislative amendments will enable VIA HFR-VIA TGF Inc. to act as an Agent of the Crown, facilitating the development of a high-frequency rail system with a $371.8 million investment over six years. This project aims to improve travel efficiency between major urban centers and reduce transportation-related emissions.
Marine and Port Enhancements
• $463.3 million over three years will be allocated to repair and maintain small craft harbours, critical after damage from events like Hurricane Fiona. Additionally, $124.1 million over five years will support Marine Atlantic Inc. to maintain affordable fares and reliable services for Atlantic Canada.
Airline Fee Transparency
• The budget emphasizes the need for clear disclosure of optional airline service fees to enable consumers to make fully informed decisions about their travel purchases. This initiative will involve collaboration with the Canadian Transportation Agency and major airlines.
Securing the Canadian Biofuels Industry
• The government proposes up to $500 million per year to support biofuels production, including renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel, and renewable natural gas. This is aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting jobs in agriculture and forestry. The Canada Infrastructure Bank also plans to invest at least $500 million in biofuels production under its green infrastructure investment stream.
National Airport System
• The Minister of Transport will release a policy statement this summer that highlights existing flexibilities for airports to attract capital, including from pension funds.
Economic Growth and Innovation
• An additional $158.5 million will be provided to Canada’s Regional Development Agencies over two years to stimulate regional economic growth through innovation, including specific provisions for housing innovation.
New Tax Measures
• The new Canada Carbon Rebate aims to return over $2.5 billion to approximately 600,000 small businesses, alleviating some of the financial burdens associated with environmental compliance.
TIAC will continue to assess the Federal Budget in its entirety and will seek clarity in several key areas. Be sure to monitor our website for regular updates.
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On April 6, the cruise season will begin when the MSC Poesia visits Halifax – several vessels will make their maiden voyage in port this year. Sarah Rumley, ACCA Executive Director says, “Visitors are drawn to our region for its unique culture, hospitable nature and breathtaking landscapes. It is through embracing these differences that ACCA has successfully positioned Atlantic Canada as a premier cruise destination.” Congratulations ACCA!
View Full Media Release – https://www.cruiseatlanticcanada.com/atlantic-canada-cruising-into-another-prosperous-season/
Until then, registered tourist accommodations can continue to operate with their current registration numbers and fees.
New tourist accommodations can still register for the extended 2023-24 season at: https://beta.novascotia.ca/register-your-tourist-accommodation
Full release and more information at: Registration for Tourist Accommodations Extended | Government of Nova Scotia News Releases
]]>The Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia (TIANS) is extremely disappointed in this week’s announcement that the provincial government will not be passing the Coastal Protection Act and urges a reconsideration on this important policy matter.
The years of effort on this proposed Legislation by numerous stakeholders, the all-party support in 2019, and the pressing issue around coastal degradation of late, make this decision almost incomprehensible. As governments tout the perilous issue of climate change; this new direction is incongruent with good policy development around coastal protection.
TIANS has been an active proponent of the need to establish protections for the NS coast for a multitude of reasons, including ensuring our greatest asset has the appropriate protection and guidelines to shape development and growth in the coming years.
As an ocean inspired destination with 13,300 kilometers of coastline, we have a shared obligation to have a regulatory framework that will serve the province’s interests. Only 5% of Nova Scotia’s coastline is publicly protected, the Environment Minister’s public statement referring to 13.1%, is the current amount of land under the total Protected Areas Network, which the coastline is part of.
To suggest this be downloaded to municipalities, with an incoherent approach around development and protection; is an abdication of governance responsibility on this issue. It is difficult to think of a more important piece of legislation for NS, as it relates to the environment today. A provincial approach would provide the right structure and guidance for municipalities, coastal communities and the majority of Nova Scotia residents.
Coincidently, over the last number of months TIANS has been working with Tourism Nova Scotia on a new Tourism Growth Strategy. Community outreach with hundreds of tourism and community members highlighted the value of our coast and natural assets, and reaffirmed the link between strong environmental policy and our brand as a preferred tourism destination.
We urge the Premier to reconsider and enact the Coastal Protection Act for Nova Scotia. A reversal on this decision needs to take place – a majority of Nova Scotian’s want this; municipal governments want this; the environment needs this. Why is government not listening?
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“Working collaboratively through the Atlantic Canada Agreement on Tourism, Nova Scotia is able to reach more potential visitors and keep Atlantic Canada top of mind as a vacation destination,” said Allan MacMaster, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage. “We are able to work with our neighbouring provinces to highlight our region as an exciting place to travel and encourage tourism spending in our communities.”
The agreement includes the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), the provincial departments responsible for tourism in Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island, and the four provincial tourism industry associations.
The Atlantic provinces and the Government of Canada have had partnership agreements to support tourism growth in the region for more than 30 years. Ongoing collaboration through the new 4.5-year agreement includes national and international advertising campaigns, travel trade, travel media activities and partnerships to promote air routes to the region.
Quotes:
“Like Yarmouth, Gros Morne, and all the magical places in Atlantic Canada, we know how important the visitor economy is to our region’s success. ACAT is a trailblazing partnership that other regions look to as an example of what can be accomplished when governments and industry have a shared vision, and work together to deliver results.”
— Gudie Hutchings, federal Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“Collaboration between the tourism industry, provincial and federal governments is critical to growing tourism in Nova Scotia, particularly as the industry works to recover from the impacts of the pandemic. We’re happy to be part of this renewed commitment to promote Atlantic Canada as a leading destination.” – Darlene Grant Fiander, President, TIANS.
View Full Release: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2024/02/21/province-signs-agreement-support-tourism-growth
]]>Wolfville, October 26, 2023:
The Taste of Nova Scotia Awards are presented each year to celebrate the vibrant culinary industry in Nova Scotia, and the people, places, and products that shape it. The 2023 award recipients were announced during DEVOUR! The Food Film Fest in Wolfville on October 26, 2023.“Taste of Nova Scotia has more than 200 restaurant, producer/processor, and industry members who are building and elevating the culinary industry of this province,” says Emily Haynes, executive director of Taste of Nova Scotia. “These awards tell the story of five Taste of Nova Scotia members, recognizing their leadership and the exceptional contributions they have made to their industries, communities, and province.”
The following Nova Scotia businesses received 2023 Taste of Nova Scotia Awards:
Award for Service
Le Caveau Restaurant & Domaine de Grand Pré (Grand Pré, NS)
Product of the Year
Smoked Salmon — Afishionado Fishmongers (Bedford, NS)
Restaurant of the Year
Wild Caraway Restaurant & Café (Advocate Harbour, NS)
Producer of the Year
den Haan Greenhouses (Lawrencetown, NS)
Gary MacDonald Culinary Ambassador Award
Amy Savoury – Faculty, School of Business and Creative Industries, NSCC Kingstec (Gaspereau, NS)
“We are so grateful to be recognized,” says Sarah Griebel, owner and manager of the Wild Caraway Restaurant & Café. “After 15 seasons of hustling to provide a non-typical dining and accommodation experience in our beautiful, rural and remote part of Nova Scotia, we are feeling seen, supported, and appreciated!”
The Taste of Nova Scotia Awards are the only province-wide awards that celebrate restaurants, service, food and beverage producers, exporters, and industry leaders, from Yarmouth to Sydney – and everywhere in between.
“The recognition given by this award means a lot to myself, my family, our management team and employees,” says Luke den Haan, CEO of den Haan Greenhouses. “We take great pride in the role that we play to produce the safest, highest quality produce for our consumers and communities in Atlantic Canada.”
Nominations for the Taste of Nova Scotia Awards were received from Taste of Nova Scotia members and the public. The nominations were brought to a judges’ panel and then approved by the Taste of Nova Scotia Board of Directors.
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Videos of the award recipients can be found on the Taste of Nova Scotia YouTube Channel. High resolution photos of the award recipients can be found in the linked Dropbox folder.
For more information please contact:
Sacha Smith
Manager of Marketing & Communications
Email: sacha@tasteofnovascotia.com
Website: www.tasteofnovascotia.com
About Taste of Nova Scotia:
Taste of Nova Scotia is a unique, province-wide, marketing program whose members are committed to offering exceptional local culinary products and experiences. The Taste of Nova Scotia membership base includes more than 200 quality food producers and processors, locally inspired restaurants, and industry members. For more information about Taste of Nova Scotia and its members, visit www.tasteofnovascotia.com
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