The Official Opposition critic for Tourism, Heritage and Culture, Isabelle Thériault, is asking for an update on the Explore NB Travel Incentive Program. More than 25,000 applications have been submitted, but only about 5,500 of those applications have been processed so far.

“The deadline for submitting claims for summer travel expenses was October 30. However, most people still haven’t heard from government and want to know when, or even if, they will receive their reimbursement,” says Isabelle Thériault, MLA for Caraquet. “Among the few who have received a response, many have had their applications rejected without any explanation. The government needs to clearly explain to New Brunswickers why their claims are being denied”.

At the time of the initial announcement, the Higgs government indicated that $3 million was being allocated to the travel incentive program.

“Have we reached that threshold yet?  What happens when the number of claims exceeds the $3 million available?  Will the second round of the program draw on that same $3 million? Why are so many claims being rejected? Are there other issues that have delayed the process?” asks the Tourism critic. “New Brunswickers deserve real answers to these questions. Minister Scott-Wallace must be open and transparent with them about the flaws in this program.”