December 16, 2011 - Ottawa – The House of Commons Finance Committee has released its pre-budget report titled “Staying Focused on Canadian Jobs and Growth”. The report provides Canadians with a framework on how the federal government plans to achieve a sustained economic recovery in Canada, create quality, sustainable jobs, ensure relatively low rates of taxation and achieve a balanced budget.

HAC President Tony Pollard appeared before the Committee on October 18th providing an overview of the state of the Canadian tourism & lodging industry requesting a review of three key areas; aviation cost structure, creating an effective visa system and increased funding for the Canadian Tourism Commission. “I am very pleased to note the recommendations the HAC advanced for stable long term funding for the CTC and for an aviation review has been picked up by the Committee,” said Tony Pollard, President of the Hotel Association of Canada. “This past year, through the HAC Grassroots Program hoteliers have met with more than 180 Ministers and MPs. This is clear evidence that the HAC Grassroots Program has been a success and confirms the strength of the Canadian Lodging Industry.”

On June 27, 2011, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance launched the 2011 pre-budget consultations with an invitation for Canadians to participate in the consultations process. Extensive consultations followed culminating with the announcement on Wednesday. The federal Budget for 2012 is expected to be table in February 2012.

About the Hotel Association of Canada
The Hotel Association of Canada is the national voice and resource for the Hotel and Lodging Industry in Canada. For nearly 100 years, it has worked to enhance the prosperity of the Canadian Hotel and Lodging Industry through strong member engagements, effective government advocacy, and the provision of value added programs and services. The Hotel Association represents more than 8,400 hotels, motels and resorts that encompass the $16 billion Canadian hotel industry which employs 284,000 people across Canada. www.hotelassociation.ca.