Tourism Workers Commended for Role in Jamaica’s Post-Hurricane Melissa Recovery

As Jamaica’s tourism industry continues to rebound in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, sector employees are being commended for their indomitable spirit, which has been central to the island’s recovery.

Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, underscored that the workforce remains the sector’s most iconic asset, stating, “the recovery cannot be complete without the workers of our industry”.

He shared first-hand accounts from tourism workers and partners who rallied to ensure operations resumed on schedule for the December 15 targeted reopening.

Mr. Bartlett emphasised that the workers’ readiness and resilience were pivotal in meeting the timeline, which coincided with the official start of the 2025/26 winter tourist season, and announced that approximately 70 per cent of the island’s tourism assets were prepared for the reopening.

He was addressing business interests and industry stakeholders, following a tour of Ocean Coral Spring Resort in Falmouth on December 14.

Mr. Bartlett also credited industry partners for their support of workers affected by Hurricane Melissa, noting that approximately US$15 million in aid has been provided, to date, through care packages, loan arrangements, and grants to assist with home repairs and sustain families during the recovery period.

He further announced the establishment of the Tourism Housing Assistance Recovery Programme (THARP), with more than $2 billion allocated to provide grant support for tourism workers who suffered housing losses.

The Minister indicated that the initiative will benefit more than 5,000 workers, describing THARP as a tangible expression of the sector’s commitment to its people while rebuilding Jamaica’s tourism product.

Mr. Bartlett also highlighted the role of the private sector in supporting workers, noting the success of the Harmonies of Hope Hurricane Melissa Aid Concert staged by tourism partners in Canada on December 5, which raised approximately Can$2.5 million to assist Jamaica’s tourism communities and workers.

On the ground, the Minister reported that Jamaica has experienced a steady influx of visitors as recovery efforts continue. Over the past four weeks, the country welcomed approximately 300,000 visitors, including 180,000 stopover arrivals and 120,000 cruise passengers.

Mr. Bartlett added that 20,800 tourists arrived in Jamaica during the four‑day span from Thursday, December 11 to Sunday, December 14.

The Minister further highlighted anticipated expansion in regional and international air service, noting that COPA Airlines will increase its Montego Bay, St. James, service to 10 weekly flights, supplementing five weekly flights to Kingston to strengthen Jamaica’s presence in South America.

He also signalled expected increases in United Kingdom (UK) traffic through carriers such as Virgin Atlantic, TUI, British Airways, and Condor from Germany.

With the United States – the island’s largest market – firmly in view, Mr. Bartlett announced that a major marketing blitz in the New York tristate area is scheduled for later this week. He noted that this follows a two‑day campaign in Canada last week.

“We will be all over the globe as we try to ensure that, within a short period of time, the growth trajectory of tourism in Jamaica will be met,” the Minister said.

He urged partners committed to the recovery effort to stay the course and remain engaged.