CLIA Stepping Up In Canada
CLIA-Northwest & Canada is rolling up its collective sleeves and working with tourism partners and ports on both coasts – along with the Canadian government — to share the latest information and answer important questions to combat the threats posed COVID-19.
In a statement on its efforts, CLIA-Northwest & Canada said that the top priority of its member cruise lines continues to be the health and safety of passengers, crew, and the communities where our ships sail. CLIA-Northwest & Canada also said that it is “concerned about the adverse economic impacts on our cruise partners, such as travel agents, longshore workers, ports, destinations, and numerous business partners.”
And it pointed out that the majority of the over 270 cruise ships globally were not affected by COVID-19, due in large part to aggressive measures adopted by CLIA oceangoing cruise lines within 48 hours of the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring a global public health emergency.
CLIA-Northwest & Canada said that on March 13, its members voluntary suspended operations — making the cruise industry one of the first to do so — to assist authorities in coming to grips with COVID-19 which has been a challenge for governments, medical experts, and industries around the world to understand.
It also pointed out that cruise lines are continuing to research and adopt robust measures in response to the COVID-19 based on prevailing guidance from international health authorities, including the WHO and the U.S. Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).
These measures include rigorous screening protocols, enhanced sanitation measures and increased onboard medical care and treatment 24/7, all funded by industry.
And the association continued that taken together, these steps are designed to protect guests, crew, and the communities where cruise ships visit.
CLIA and leaders of the member lines appreciate the constructive working relationship with Canadian authorities including Transport Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada as it seeks to achieve the shared objective of protecting the health and safety of everyone involved in the cruise sector.
The association also pointed out that the cruise industry is a significant contributor to Canada’ economy, generating more than $3.2 billion in economic activity and over 23,000 jobs in transportation, lodging, food and beverage, agriculture, manufacturing, travel agencies across the country.
And it concluding that the unprecedented disruptions in this year’s cruise season will have a significant economic impact, especially on coastal communities in Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec and British Columbia.
