TORONTO — ACTA has launched a new COVID-19 portal on its website to keep members updated with the latest information about the ongoing outbreak.

Members are able to connect to the portal directly from the home page of acta.ca. Members are required to login with their email address and ACTA login.

Inside the portal, they’ll find ACTA alerts and advisories, government resources and business resources, including HR programs and government funding programs.

Content will be kept up to date as the situation continues to unfold.

The portal reads: “ACTA believes that showing concerned travellers the value of a Travel Agent today will keep them coming back tomorrow and when this crisis is over, and at some point it will be over. In the meantime, we have to keep our businesses as strong as possible in this rapidly changing situation and we hope the following content provided by ACTA will support your efforts.”

To access the portal, go to acta.ca/updates-on-covid-19.

TICO has also issued an official statement regarding COVID-19 to assure concerned registrants. According to CEO Richard Smart, TICO is vigilantly monitoring the global situation around the clock and considering all options.

“At TICO, we have implemented measures to ensure our operations and staff remain available to provide service to consumers and registrants, while respecting the hygiene and social distancing practices requested by the authorities,” he said. “For our registrants, we acknowledge the extreme challenges underway for your businesses and employees, and recognize the incredible support you’re providing to assist customers.”

Noting how TICO has been hearing from many registrants about long wait times when speaking with travel providers, Smart is encouraging everyone to be patient and remain vigilant.

“If your departure is not imminent, please consider waiting to call as requests are being processed based on the date of departure,” he added. “These circumstances are unprecedented and travel companies are working to assist you as quickly as possible. It’s a stressful time and Ontario’s travel agencies, websites and tour operators are here to support you.”

For a complete list of what registrants are responsible for, under the Travel Industry Act, 2002, during the ongoing health crisis, go to tico.ca/news/registrar-bulletins/388-registrar-bulletin-coronavirus.html.