May 11, 2021 AR 82111 Dave Kaiser C/O Tracy Douglas-Blowers Alberta Hotel and Lodging Association [email protected] Dear Dave Kaiser, Thank you for your email regarding the easing of restrictions and recommendations to support the hospitality sector. As the Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation, I appreciate this opportunity to respond on the behalf of Alberta’s government. While many sectors of Alberta’s economy have been challenged by ongoing public health recommendations, accommodation providers have been hit exceptionally hard. I understand that your members are still facing significant challenges because of the COVID-19 pandemic. We recognize the Alberta Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) works hard to protect our communities from the spread of COVID-19 and has become a leader in innovative approaches with programs like AHLA Safe Accommodation Promise. In light of ongoing health measures and feedback from Alberta’s business community, we are reopening the Small and Medium Enterprise Relaunch grant and offering affected small and medium-sized businesses the opportunity to apply for another payment. We have heard the calls for increased funding for businesses from the business community, and are responding to this urgent need. Application intake for this new payment will open in late April. These changes ensure we can get this funding in the hands of more Alberta businesses in need. For details, please visit www.alberta.ca/sme-relaunch-grant.aspx. As you are aware, the Tourism Levy abatement, that was extended to March 31, 2021, freed up an estimated $10 million in additional cash flow for the sector to employ staff, maintain operations, and continue providing valuable services through the winter season. While we are not providing an extension to the abatement period at this time, we continue to listen to Alberta’s hotel and accommodation providers to determine whether additional support is needed and what that support might look like. The tourism industry is resilient and resourceful, and will continue to serve as a critical part of Alberta’s economic recovery. We will take your suggestions under advisement as Page 1 of 2 Classification: Public Page 2 Dave Kaiser we build on our plan to support Albertans and Alberta businesses through the pandemic. Again, thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. I appreciate hearing from you. Sincerely, Doug Schweitzer, Q.C. Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation cc: Honourable Jason Kenney Premier of Alberta Honourable Travis Toews President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance Honourable Jason Copping Minister of Labour and Immigration Honourable Grant Hunter Associate Minister of Red Tape Reduction Mr. Martin Long Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Tourism Classification: Public .