New Tourism Minister Excited To Get To Work

New Brunswick’s new tourism, heritage and culture minister says the last few days have been like a “fast-moving train”.

Tammy Scott-Wallace, the MLA for Sussex-Fundy-St. Martins, was sworn in as part of the premier’s cabinet on Tuesday.

It came just 38 days after the first-time MLA was nominated as the Progressive Conservative candidate for her riding.

“I can’t say I expected that,” said Scott-Wallace about being appointed to a cabinet position.

“I must say it is humbling and it is exciting to be entrusted with this portfolio, particularly this portfolio because of the riding’s location where the Fundy Trail begins and ends currently, the Sussex to St. Martins area.”

Scott-Wallace said tourism is an important portfolio and she believes it is one she is well-suited for.

As she learns the ropes of her new position, Scott-Wallace said she looking forward to speaking with tourism operators about the challenges they are facing and how government can help.

“We do know that COVID created a lot of challenges with fewer travellers, but on the bright side we know that our parks saw 30 per cent more New Brunswick visitors in recent months, and that is a positive thing,” she said.

“That doesn’t mean that there were not many challenges for our operators, and I don’t have a full handle on what they are, but I do look forward to meeting them and talking further on that to better understand how I can help them or where the gaps are.”

With fall upon us and winter just around the corner, Scott-Wallace encouraged New Brunswickers to get out and explore the province.

She believes the tourism rebate program, which was launched by the Progressive Conservatives this summer, will help.

“Because of the feedback we got from that initiative, we’ve extended that through to March 31st so that New Brunswickers can enjoy fall and winter activities with their families,” she said.