JAMAICA | Tourism Shadow Minister shocked by Bartlett's claim that travel advisories had no impact on Visitor Arrivals

KINGSTON, Jamaica. May 2, 2024: Opposition Spokesperson on Tourism and Linkages Senator Janice Allen is raising significant concerns about Minister Edmund Bartlett's recent assertion that Jamaica's visitor arrivals have not been negatively affected by travel advisories.

Minister Bartlett’s comments were made During a post-Cabinet press briefing yesterday.

"It is quite curious that the Minister would make such a statement when most operators in the industry, whether large or small hoteliers, transportation providers, or attractions operators, have all indicated their concerns with the arrival figures since the most recent travel advisory issued by the US State Department," Senator Allen remarked.

Contrary to the Minister's assertion, some hotels have reported a softening of bookings subsequent to the advisory, indicating a tangible impact on the industry.

The OppositionSpokesperson pointed out that in the period immediately following the latest advisory, efforts were undertaken by various stakeholders, including the Minister, the Jamaica Tourist Board, and even the Prime Minister, to mitigate its effects through public relations campaigns.

"In light of these facts, I am uncertain how the Minister can make such a bold statement that there has been no negative impact," said Allen.

“We accept that there have been reopenings of hotels since the advisory. However, if we were to remove those properties and look at an equal comparison year on year, the figures would show that there has been a decrease," She continued.

The opposition Senator has  urged Minister Bartlett to exercise caution in his claims and reporting of numbers and refrain from creating the wrong impression among Jamaicans.

Transparent and accurate communication is vital to ensuring a well-informed public and effectively addressing challenges within the tourism sector, she advised.

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