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MacKenzie Concerned About Tourism |
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Written by NS Liberal Party
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Wednesday, 16 November 2005 |
Liberal Leader, Francis MacKenzie, says the Nova Scotia Department of Tourism statistics for the Annapolis Valley do not reflect what operators in the area are actually saying about what they're calling a "lousy" season. The report shows occupancy rates in Annapolis Valley motels, bed-and-breakfasts and campgrounds are down by 4 per cent, and the number of nights sold down by 10 per cent. However, those who make their living renting out rooms are saying the situation is far worse.
"Our numbers were down much more than 10 per cent," said one hotel operator. "It's been lousy. I don't know where they get their numbers. I've talked to people who said they were down anywhere from 30 to 60 per cent."
Loretta Buchanan, the general manager of the Slumber Inn in New Minas said she knows many operators offering accommodations along the Evangeline Trail who are suffering through a difficult year. "In general, we're all really concerned about where tourism is going," she said.
MacKenzie believes the Tories are not telling the real story when it comes to tourism."The government has to stop covering up the truth. We have a serious problem. Let's get it all on the table, and then we can start thinking about what we're going to start doing to turn it around." |
