Representatives from the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) of Canada and the Canadian Camping and RV Council (CCRVC) are meeting on Canada’s Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario today to discuss campground tax implementation, tourism investment policies and infrastructure upgrades.
“RVing and camping is part of what makes us Canadian,” said Josée Bédard, chair of RVDA. “Most of us had the chance, as children, to explore and visit the most incredible places and scenery this country has to offer. On top of that, our industry has a considerable economic impact that can be felt across the nation and especially in the rural parts of Canada. The manufacturing, purchasing, servicing and use of recreation vehicles contributes billions to the Canadian economy each year.”
The Canadian recreation vehicle industry was powered by more than 67,200 employees, and generated more than $3.4 billion for the tourism sector, $1.9 billion in tax revenue and $2.7 billion in labor income, Bédard said. There are over 4,231 campgrounds across Canada.
According to RVDA Canada, 75% of campsites lack necessary services for RVs and the promotion of the RV sector and proper infrastructure in existing parks is crucial to RVing, the camping industries’ and tourism growth. Infrastructure improvements are required to accommodate new camping and RV technologies, the organization said.
“Our industry needs reassurance by the government that financial investments will be made to modernize campground and National Parks infrastructure to a level that satisfies the steady increase in demand”, said Ellie Abucay-Giammatollo, chair of the Canadian Camping and RV Council. “Without clear commitments from this government, our members will enter a new era for the tourism industry that is focused on clean energy, without having the proper electrification, transportation and connectivity infrastructure necessary to support this transition. This government must continue to provide financial supports to increase electrical infrastructure by providing financing and grants to businesses investing in the EV infrastructure.”
Canada is lacking in skilled, trained workers and tradespeople who play a crucial role in the RV industry, RVDA of Canada said. RV service technician programs are only available in certain provinces and the available courses fill up quickly.
“Sustained tourism growth starts with people,” said Eleonore Hamm, RVDA of Canada president, “and we request that the government work with us to find ways to find, train and retain skilled workers. “
