TORONTO — With TICO’s AGM coming up this Tuesday, Sept. 24, the Canadian Association of Tour Operators said it is hoping to hear that the Ontario government will make announcements for a concrete plan to proceed with a comprehensive review of the Travel Industry Act, 2002, and its associated regulations.

TICO’s AGM agenda includes mention of an update from the Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement.

CATO said it is also “looking forward to hearing from TICO if they can present greater ‘value for money’, despite some obvious operation cost increases, notably in governance and Board remuneration that have doubled over the last couple of years.”

CATO is calling on the Ontario government to take immediate action on recommendation 16 from the Office of the Auditor General’s report, ‘Value for Money’ tabled in December 2023. In May 2024 TICO shared a public action plan to address the AG’s recommendations.

CATO said: “This recommendation emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive review of the Travel Industry Act, 2002, and its associated regulations to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the regulatory system in Ontario.

“Despite the clear directive from the Auditor General, there has been little progress in addressing this critical issue. The travel industry in Ontario is a vital component of our economy, contributing significantly to job creation and tourism revenue.

“However, the current regulatory framework is outdated and in need of reform to better serve both consumers and industry stakeholders.

“The Auditor General’s report highlighted several inefficiencies within the existing regulatory system, which can hinder the growth and competitiveness of Ontario’s travel sector. A thorough review of the Travel Industry Act is essential to ensure that regulations are not only effective but also adaptable to the evolving landscape of the travel industry.”

Jean Hébert, executive director at CATO, said: ““We cannot afford to delay any longer. The travel industry is facing unprecedented challenges, and a modernized regulatory framework is crucial for its future success. We ask the government to act on its commitment to conduct a comprehensive review of the Travel Industry Act, 2002 and its regulation, and take decisive action to implement the Auditor

General’s recommendations.”

Hébert added that CATO is dedicated to participating in this review process.

“Our Association remains committed to advocating for the interests of Canadian Tour Operators and the travel industry and will continue to push for the government to act swiftly on this matter. We believe that by working together, we can create a more efficient and effective regulatory environment that benefits us all.

“We encourage all stakeholders in the travel industry, as well as concerned citizens, to join us in holding the government accountable to its commitment to undertake a comprehensive review of the Travel Industry Act, 2002, as recommended by the Auditor General,” he said.