MONTEGO BAY, St James —— Director of Tourism Donovan White says his agency has not received any complaints of food shortage in the sector, even as the agriculture sector continues to recover from the impact of Hurricane Beryl which hit the island’s breadbasket parishes hard in July

“We have had no complaints, at this point, that there is a challenge,” White said on Sunday following a church service to mark the start of Tourism Week activities.

He, however, said whatever situation develops, he is certain it will be managed by those in authority.

“Surely, if there is [any complaint], I’m sure the ministry [of tourism] and the minister will be duly advised, and those decisions will be taken accordingly,” he said.

However, White was quick to point out that industry players will also work to ensure that their own situations are managed so they do not face serious issues throughout the season.

“The tourism industry has many stakeholders, many participants; large among them are our private participants — particular[ly] in our hotels space and our attractions space,” he explained. “These are business entities that make decisions as to how they operate their businesses in a uniformed and professional way.”

Hurricane Beryl left the agriculture sector with damage valued by the authorities at close to $5 billion. Just under 50,000 farmers were affected by the storm which impacted vegetable production, fruits, bananas, and a wide range of other items.

Agriculture Minister Floyd Green, during a recent presentation in Parliament, said that approximately 23,040 hectares of farmland had also been affected. He also explained that the sector suffered the loss of 323,412 animals, including small ruminants, poultry and cattle.

White, meantime, is looking forward to Tourism Week, which is being observed under the theme ‘Tourism and Peace: Out of Many, One Love.’

Among the activities will be a gastronomy showcase that, he said, will be “delightful” to those who come out and partake.

“The gastronomy event, Savour Jamaica, will showcase Jamaica’s rich culinary heritage at the Artisan Village in Falmouth, Trelawny, on Thursday,” he said.

Additionally, a youth forum is scheduled for Wednesday at Montego Bay Convention Centre, while the week will close with the Out of Many, One Love concert at Devon House on Friday.