ACTA isn’t suggesting or endorsing who to vote for in Monday’s federal election, but Canada’s travel agent association wants to make it easier for its members, and even those who aren’t, to make their own choice, at least based on campaign promises of the country’s three main political parties related to travel and tourism (including aid to business).

To that end, ACTA has published an online comparison of the platforms and the impact on travel agencies and independent travel agents of the Liberals, Conservatives and New Democrats, which is accessible via an easy to navigate dropdown menu HERE.

And like sister organization, TIAC, ACTA is also urging travel agents to “keep up the pressure” on party candidates during the final days of the campaign, noting that, with less than a week to go before the vote, “every meeting, call, door-to-door discussion with candidates, and social media message a candidate sees has the potential to impact the course of national policy, including financial support.”

“Now is the time to speak with electoral candidates and share your need for continued federal financial support,” says ACTA president Wendy Paradis, adding, “There is huge value in sharing your own story and message on Twitter, as candidates are closely following activity there. “

ACTA has also compiled key notes, sample Tweets, and other resources to support member’s own grassroots advocacy, which can be found HERE.

Another informational resource is the link to a video conference by The Coalition of Hardest Hit Businesses, of which ACTA is a member. The Sept. 10 webinar was co-chaired by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) and the Hotel Association of Canada after the federal leaders debate, and featured government relations experts giving an overview of each federal party and how their platforms impact the travel and tourism sector.

Don’t forget to vote

Most importantly and beyond grassroots advocacy in the final week before the Sept. 20 election, ACTA is strongly encouraging its members to get out and vote.

“There is much to be lost – or gained—in the outcome of this election,” says Paradis. “For the travel industry, this is the most important election of our lifetime. For many of our members, their very survival depends on it.”