The World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) has issued a formal statement to the City of Montreal, expressing strong support for keeping the licensing requirement for tourist guides in place. Licensing ensures high professional standards, protects visitor safety, supports sustainable tourism, and strengthens local economies.

In our letter of 25 January 2025, we highlighted the proven benefits of guide licensing worldwide and commended the Association Professionnelle des Guides Touristiques de Montréal (APGT) for their steadfast advocacy to maintain quality and professionalism in the city’s tourism sector.

Below you can read our full statement to the City of Montreal:

Dear Members of the City Administration,

On behalf of the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA), I am writing to express our strong support for maintaining the requirement for tourist guides in Montreal to hold valid licenses. As the leading global organisation representing professional tourist guides, we firmly believe that regulated guiding plays a vital role in ensuring quality, professionalism, and safety in the tourism industry.

Licensing brings numerous benefits to both the industry and the community, including:

• Professional Standards:
  Licensing ensures guides are well-trained and knowledgeable, delivering a high standard of service that enhances the visitor experience and promotes the city’s cultural and historical heritage.
• Tourist Safety:
  Training and licensing often include first aid certification, which is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors.
• Economic Benefits:
  Licensed guides contribute to the local economy by operating transparently and in compliance with financial regulations.
• Sustainable Tourism Practices:
  Regulated guides align with sustainability goals, promoting small group sizes, adherence to local customs, and consistent messaging that supports tourism development.
• Support for Marginalised Groups:
  The guiding profession often provides flexible employment opportunities for women, caregivers, and others who require adaptable working arrangements, making it a critical component of inclusive economic growth.

 

The WFTGA has witnessed the benefits of licensing in many regions worldwide, where regulation safeguards the integrity of the profession, supports local economies, and ensures a positive experience for visitors. We encourage the City of Montreal to consider these aspects as it deliberates on this important matter.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if we can provide additional information or connect you with key experts in other regions where licensing has been successfully upheld or reinstated.

We commend the Association Professionnelle des Guides Touristiques de Montréal (APGT) for their tireless efforts in advocating for the preservation of high standards in the guiding profession. The WFTGA stands in full support of their mission and remains available for any further assistance.

 

Yours sincerely,

 

Sebastian Frankenberger
President, WFTGA