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US ID plan already hurting tourism
The US’s evolving plan to require identification for travelers to Canada has had a negative impact well before implementation, said tourism officials.
Convention planners, for example, are hesitant to book meetings in advance without knowing what plan will be implemented or what new identification cards will cost.
“There is uncertainty in the marketplace and uncertainty is killing us right now,” said Randy Williams of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada.
Many Americans thinking the requirement is already in place are staying away, Mr Williams told a panel of US and Canadian government officials during a trade meeting.
He said potential visitors were concerned the US requirements would be too bothersome and costly.
At this time, Americans need to show a driver’s license or birth certificate when re-entering the country at land borders.
Beginning in 2008, visitors will need either a passport or other form of identification now being developed by the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security.
Canadians, in turn, would have to show a passport to enter the US.
There were 34.5 million visits by Canadians to the US in 2003, the last year where figures were available, according to the Binational Tourism Alliance.
Ontario Tourism Minister Jim Bradley predicted a decline in tourism and the lost of millions of dollars. He urged upgrading present forms of ID such as driver’s licenses.
The government is still looking at various alternatives, said officials of Homeland Security. A wallet sized card that’s been suggested would cost only half of the present $97 for passports.
“We need a solution that recognizes that we can secure the border and protect commerce and tourism,” said US Senator Charles Schumer.
Report by David Wilkening
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