Cabinet To Get Destination Assurance Framework and Strategy Green Paper

The Green Paper for the Destination Assurance Framework and Strategy (DAFS) will be submitted to Cabinet by the end of the first quarter of the 2021/2022 fiscal year.

This disclosure was made by Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, at a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) ‘Think Tank’ held at the agency’s head office in Kingston on Friday (April 23).

“This document aims to ensure that the integrity, quality and standards of Jamaica’s tourism product are maintained,” said Mr. Bartlett.

He informed that destination assurance has been a key feature of the country’s tourism model over the years; however, adjustments have been made “to better meet the needs of the GEN-C travellers who have a vested interest in unique experiences which are safe”.

According to the Minister, GEN-C travellers are those whose experiences and expectations have been shaped by the health and safety risks of the COVID-19 pandemic, the requirements for social distancing and enhanced hygiene, the requirements for testing, quarantines and vaccines to travel and the psychological impacts of lockdowns.

He said the new measures that were introduced have resulted in Jamaica being globally recognised as providing leadership in tourism COVID-19 management arrangements.

The Minister further pointed out that destination assurance is key to future tourism success.

“It is a promise to visitors that assures an authentic, safe and seamless experience, which is respectful to the community and environment,” he added.