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10 SPRING 2018 BY CORY KOLT P olicy development is often seen by those from the outside as challenging, complex and intimidating. Sometimes, however, it can be the opposite. Such was the case during the recent policy development process that led to the list of resolutions presented to the members at the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce 87th Annual General Meeting. As Manitoba continues to see significant increases in tourism dollars, the importance of positioning tourism stakeholders and industries remains critical to future growth. Any aspect that puts Manitoba's industry at a disadvantage can severely hamper the efforts of those within the tourism industry, including Travel Manitoba's marketing efforts to attract visitors (both local and international). Two areas of concern emerged where this could be the case — the lack of easily accessible short-term fishing licences and the need for expanded camping options in provincial parks. Fishing remains one of the most popular industries in Manitoba. Whether it be fly- in fishing or unique species fishing, the industry provides tourism with a significant monetary injection and remains a focus of Travel Manitoba's marketing campaign. However, jurisdictions like Ontario have implemented policies that place Manitoba fishing stakeholders at a distinct disadvantage. The absence in Manitoba of a one-day or one-week licence option for non-residents is very significant. When looking at the overall state of the fishing industry, providing short- term licence options for visitors seems like a no-brainer when you think about it. From a pure dollars-and-cents approach, including such options would help to attract more tourists to our province, encourage those who already visit us to experience one of the activities that make our province great, and dissuade people from fishing without a licence. In Ontario, there is such an option. Another major difference is that Ontario's licences are available for purchase online. That is not yet the case in Manitoba. With that in mind, MCC will be looking to make progress by working with the government, Travel Manitoba and Manitoba's fishing stakeholders to implement and offer three- year, one, three and eight-day licences, as EXPANDING TOURISM HORIZONS More options for anglers and campers could spur growth for industry When looking at the overall state of the fishing industry, providing short- term licence options for visitors seems like a no-brainer.

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