The Regional Secretary for Tourism and Transport said today that the Azorean Government is working with partners in the sector to find alternatives to offset the low tourism flows in the domestic market, which is the direct result of the policies imposed by the National Government on Portuguese families.

Speaking to journalists, Vítor Fraga stipulated that the "Government of the Azores has been working with entities operating in the national market to redevelop our destination in this market, focusing on market segments with purchasing power that are seeking for experiences and a close contact with nature."

Speaking at the end of meeting with the Special Committee on Tourism of the Ponta Delgada Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Regional Secretary revealed that our destination will also focus on families with the promotion of campaigns targeted at this market segment.

During the meeting, revealed the government official, "the Chamber of Commerce presented a series of objective and specific measures to be developed in this market in the future" so that to tackle the sharp drop of national tourists and invert this trend, as it has happened with the external markets.

The Regional Secretary for Tourism and Transport also revealed that a resolution issued by the Council of the Government was published today in the Official Journal. The resolution stipulates "the maximum ceiling for support granted under the contract-programmes signed with non-profit organisations to promote the Azores destination, improve our tourism offer and develop tourist animation activities. The support is set at an overall amount of 5 million Euros and 970 thousand Euros."

For Vítor Fraga, this investment "demonstrates the effort and commitment" of the Government of the Azores in carrying out "a joint work with all entities so that we may continue our good performance in this sector."