Industry not betting on Budget fallout

ALL bets are on over what will be said this afternoon when Finance Minister Trevor Manuel spells out his plans during his Budget speech on the forthcoming fiscal year. Depending on lifestyles, the average man in the street obviously has certain hopes and expectations, but can the tourism industry expect anything? Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA)president, Andy Dott, says that while better economic planning decisions will in the long term encourage investment and positively affect tourism, he doubts the government will allocate any funds specifically aimed at stimulating tourism. "We are not holding our breath. Government should focus more on tourism growth as this will generate foreign exchange, creating jobs and additional income for it to address issues such as health, education and better crime prevention." The chairman of the Hotel Industry Liaison Group and executive chairman of the Protea Hotel Group, Otto Stehlik, says he hopes that any announcement by the minister will focus on creating tourism demand both domestically and internationally. "Tax breaks for consumers will hopefully put more money in the pockets of ordinary South Africans, who can then afford to spend more on holidays," he says. Regarding tourism growth from international markets, Stehlik said while he commends Satour's marketing campaign, the government will have to raise additional funds in order to sustain the campaign on a long-term basis. Manuel will deliver his speech from Parliament in Cape Town at 14h00 local time. (Miguel de Sousa)