15,288 New Hotel Rooms by 2012

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has said that the number of hotel rooms in the industry is projected to be increased by over 15,288 by 2012.
“This represents an injection of over $80 billion in foreign direct investment, which will generate jobs for over 8,300 Jamaicans,” the Prime Minister noted. Mrs. Simpson Miller was making her contribution to the 2007/08 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives, yesterday (May 1).
“The figure does not include expansions under the Harmony Cove and Decameron projects due for completion after 2012. It is expected that this project will yield another 6,000 additional rooms and more than 9,000 jobs. These developments by 2012 will create over 17,000 new direct and sustainable jobs within the sector,” she added.
Mrs. Simpson Miller also noted that the tourism sector, with its strong inter-sectoral linkages, has been creating income earning opportunities for many Jamaicans.
She pointed out that many small business people, such as traders, taxi drivers, cosmetologists, and entertainment personnel are benefiting from the tourism boom.
“Produce is bought from farmers. Hotels purchase products from farmers, contract local services, employ professional skills and make use of local talent,” she said.