TORONTO - In an effort to salvage the city’s 2003 tourist season the federal government is providing $17.5 million in aid to the tourism and hospitality industries. The SARS outbreak has hurt the industry, and as we head into summer, the industries are facing greater potential losses.

The money will be divided among two groups. A non-profit association Toront03 Alliance will receive $10 million to develop and promote tourist events in the Toronto region and attract international visitors. The Alliance will be made up of members of the city’s tourism and hospitality communities. The remaining $7.5 million will go to the Canadian Tourism Commission to be used to encourage Canadians to spend their vacation dollars at home this summer.

This latest contribution is being provided in addition to the $20 million that was announced previously. Both aid packages are part of the federal government’s Canada’s Tourism Recovery Strategy.

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