The tourism sector of the regions of Girona raises its voice and affirmations its activity as a “fundamental pillar” for the economic, social and cultural development of the municipalities of Girona.
In a day held this Thursday, at the Girona Auditorium, organized by Girona Tourist Board in collaboration with the Costa Brava Girona Tourist Board, the Provincial Council of Girona and the University of Girona, the sector wanted to defend and enhance Girona’s tourism model. «We don’t accept being the donkey of the beatings of many problems of our society and yes, part of the solution” denounced the president of the Girona Tourist Board, Jaume Dulsat.
“As an industry of industries, we want this make our voice heardtourism in the regions of Girona is concerned with the well-being of its workers, deseasonalization, coexistence and good relations between residents and visitors”, he assured. “We are a pioneering sector, we are committed to correct management and good public-private collaboration and we want to underline that tourism brings very positive things to our territory in many different areas: social , cultural and economic”, he remarked.
More than 100 members
During the act, the sommelier of the Celler de Can Roca, Josep Rocaread the manifesto “Touristes Som Tot@s”, which bears the signature of more than one hundred organizationsassociations and bodies representing more than 5,000 members and 20,000 companies and businesses in the Girona region.
The document collects some data from the delimitation sector, such as jobs which generates approximately 60,000 direct jobs and thousands of indirect ones, i.e. the weight of the activity in GDP of the province, approximately 19% of the total.
“Girona is a destination with immense potential and it is our responsibility to ensure that this potential is translated into reality bless for all the people who live and visit our regions”, reads the manifesto.
The sector recalls that in 2023, through the tourist tax, they were collected 14.5 million euros in the regions of Girona. Furthermore, they believe that “we have a legislative framework, in terms of tourism, that is quite advanced compared to other national and international destinations”.
In their manifesto the tourist agents also undertake to: work together with administrationsbusinesses and civil society to “ensure tourism that brings benefits to all”. However, they believe that to achieve this goal it is necessary to bet and invest in professional training of the sector in order to offer an “excellent and adequate service to the needs of visitors” and, furthermore, in balance with the coexistence of local communities. Furthermore, they ask to promote, together with the administration, the development ofinfrastructure and services that facilitate access and mobility, with “attention to sustainability and respect for the environment”. they claim to involve the community in tourism decision-making, “ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and plays a relevant role”.
“Regenerative” tourism.
In addition to the speeches of Jaume Dulsat and Josep Roca, the event will see the participation of the parliaments of the president of the Diputació de Girona and the Patronat de Turisme Costa Brava Girona, Michele Noguer; Gemma Geis, deputy mayor of the Municipality of Girona and second vice-president of the Provincial Council of Girona; and the director of territorial Business and Work services, Pau rich.
“From the Costa Brava Girona Tourist Board of the Diputació de Girona on which we bet tourism regenerative and for an ethical tourism modelsustainable and responsible”, stated Miquel Noguer. The president of the Provincial Council explained that “we adhere to the National Commitment for Responsible Tourism, approved by the Government of the Generalitat of Catalonia. We share the values of sustainability, we work for the deconcentration and deseasonalisation of tourism activity and we guarantee the cohesion of the sector and coexistence between residents and visitors.’
During the meeting, various testimonies from professionals in the sector and that of two students and future tourism professionals were also heard through videos. All these have influenced the “strength of tourism” and its ability to make “the richness and excellence of the territory” known everywhere.
The event included a solidarity action to raise funds for the program to improve the pediatric hospitalization facility at the Josep Trueta hospital in Girona. Josep Perapoch, head of pediatrics at the Doctor Josep Trueta University Hospital, explained that the aim of the program is to make the stay of children and their families more pleasant.
What are the main goals outlined in the “Touristes Som Tot@s” manifesto for sustainable tourism in Girona?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Jaume Dulsat, President of the Girona Tourist Board
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Jaume. It’s a pleasure to discuss the vibrant tourism sector in Girona. You recently organized an event emphasizing tourism as a fundamental pillar for local development. Can you elaborate on the significance of this?
Jaume Dulsat: Thank you for having me. The event was indeed crucial. We wanted to highlight that tourism is not just an economic force; it’s a cornerstone of our social and cultural fabric as well. It contributes significantly to the well-being of our communities. We are tired of being seen merely as scapegoats for societal issues; instead, we want to be recognized as part of the solution.
Time.news Editor: That’s a strong statement. You mentioned the concept of being an “industry of industries.” Can you explain what that means in practical terms for Girona?
Jaume Dulsat: Certainly! When I say “industry of industries,” I refer to the interconnectedness of tourism with other sectors, such as hospitality, agriculture, retail, and transport. For instance, tourism supports around 60,000 direct jobs and significantly impacts the local GDP—about 19%. By developing tourism, we enhance the prospects for many other sectors, ensuring a more robust economic development for Girona.
Time.news Editor: You read a manifesto, “Touristes Som Tot@s,” signed by over 100 organizations. What’s the key message there?
Jaume Dulsat: The manifesto underscores our collective commitment to responsible and inclusive tourism. It emphasizes that our tourism strategy should not only focus on increasing visitor numbers but also ensure that local communities feel the benefits. We are striving for a tourism model that prioritizes sustainability, infrastructure development, and local engagement in decision-making.
Time.news Editor: That’s intriguing! You also referred to the need for professional training within the tourism sector. Why is this particularly important now?
Jaume Dulsat: Investing in professional training is key to meeting the evolving expectations of visitors. As the tourism landscape changes, we need to equip our workforce with skills that promote excellent service aligned with local community values. It helps to foster a harmonious coexistence between residents and visitors while maximizing the positive effects of tourism.
Time.news Editor: In your manifesto, you touched on infrastructure and accessibility. How do you envision tourism evolving in light of sustainability?
Jaume Dulsat: We believe that sustainable tourism must be a priority. This involves not just protecting our natural landscapes but also ensuring that transport and facilities evolve responsibly. It might mean enhancing public transport options, developing eco-friendly accommodation, and promoting local products to visitors. We have a unique opportunity to develop “regenerative” tourism—creating systems that benefit both visitors and local communities.
Time.news Editor: That sounds promising for the future of Girona. Given the recent collection of 14.5 million euros through the tourist tax, how do you think these funds should be utilized?
Jaume Dulsat: The revenue from the tourist tax is vital for reinvestment in our communities. We envision using these funds for infrastructure improvements, cultural projects, and enhancing public services—always with sustainability in mind. It’s essential that this investment translates into tangible benefits for both visitors and residents, creating a thriving ecosystem.
Time.news Editor: Lastly, what message would you like to convey to tourists and residents regarding the future of tourism in Girona?
Jaume Dulsat: Our message is one of unity and shared responsibility. We want tourists to know that they are welcome, and we hope they will appreciate the rich culture and natural beauty of our region while respecting local customs and communities. For residents, we are committed to making Girona a better place for all, ensuring that tourism complements our way of life. Together, we can make sure that tourism becomes a sustainable and enriching experience for everyone involved.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your time and insights, Jaume. It’s inspiring to hear about the collaborative efforts taking shape in Girona’s tourism sector.
Jaume Dulsat: Thank you. The future is bright, and we’re excited to embrace it together as a community!