HANOVER, Jamaica – Senior members of the Ministry of Tourism and related agencies are expected to meet with the management team and some staff members of Royalton Negril on Wednesday in an effort to iron out issues that led to Monday’s protest by staff.

“We will have a meeting with management and some staff members tomorrow,” Senior Strategist/Adviser in the Ministry of Tourism, Delano Seiveright told Observer Online.

On Tuesday, Opposition Spokesperson on Tourism, Senator Janice Allen issued an urgent call for dialogue between Royalton Negril’s management and staff.

According to Allen, the strike stems from long-standing issues that have significantly impacted employee morale and working conditions.

READ: Hotel worker allegedly injured on the job decries mistreatment of staff

Senator Allen noted the concerns raised by the staff including inadequate food provisions and poor conditions in the staff canteen, insufficient treatment and support from management, low wages, particularly for line staff and supervisory roles, and ongoing challenges related to contract work arrangements.

“It is clear that these issues have reached a breaking point, and I urge the management of Royalton Negril to engage in meaningful dialogue with the staff to reach an amicable resolution,” said Senator Allen.

She emphasised that employees in the hotel industry are essential to delivering exceptional service and addressing human relations issues promptly is critical for the health of the tourism sector.

“The longer these matters remain unresolved, the greater the risk to both employee satisfaction and the reputation of the hotel. The Opposition Spokesperson is calling on all parties to come together and prioritise a swift resolution that respects the rights and needs of the staff. “Let us work collaboratively to ensure that our tourism industry remains a model of excellence and compassion,” said Senator Allen.

The protest impacted the operations of the hotel which reportedly resulted in some guests having to find alternative food. Some guests also came out in support of the workers during the protest.

– Anthony Lewis