Tourism is extremely important to the Island economy and, as such, outstanding contributions to the industry should be recognized, says Minister of Tourism and Culture Robert Henderson.

“The 2012 Tourism Awards are an excellent opportunity to recognize tourism operators who truly make a difference in the industry,” said Minister Henderson. “I encourage Islanders to nominate an individual or business that has improved our overall tourism product and helped to accelerate the success of the tourism industry which is one of our largest employers and economic generators.”

The Tourism Awards are presented annually by the Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island. In total, eleven awards are presented. Nominations are accepted for nine of those, including the Lieutenant-Governor’s Tourism Award, the Media Award, the Hospitality Award (presented to an individual from each of the three counties), Operator of the Year, the Parks Canada Sustainable Tourism Award and the Tourism Advisory Council Brand Essence Award.

Nomination forms can be found online at www.tiapei.pe.ca and can be submitted by fax at (902) 368-3605. The deadline for nominations for the 2012 awards is February 4, 2013. For more information, contact Dianne Bishop by email at dbishop@tiapei.pe.ca .