ST JAMES, Jamaica — Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett has welcomed the support from private sector organisations in the establishment of a $1billion fund to assist tourism workers affected by Hurricane Melissa.

“The most precious asset of our tourism industry is our staff. In moments of adversity, our people rise to the occasion. I am profoundly impressed by how quickly the sector mobilised to ensure that those who deliver the Jamaica brand are protected, supported and given a path back to normalcy as soon as possible,” Bartlett said.

The minister informed that the Government has committed $600 million to the special recovery fund, with the sector contributing an additional $400 million-plus.

“This blended funding approach positions Jamaica to deploy relief measures quickly and efficiently, leveraging public stewardship and private sector efficiency,” he added.

The minister was speaking to business interests and other stakeholders following a tour of several hotels and attractions in Ocho Rios, St Ann on November 20.

Bartlett emphasised that the sector’s resilience is what enables Jamaica to weather storms and continue welcoming visitors with the warmth for which the nation is known for.

He said that the blended funding approach not only accelerates support for workers but also reinforces confidence across the industry, demonstrating a united front between government and private stakeholders in safeguarding the livelihood of staff across hotels, resorts and related tourism enterprises.

Several properties have announced financial commitments to support workers in need, including the RIU Hotels. The well-known resort chain, with some eight properties across the island, announced a donation of US$1 million to relief efforts, with an additional US$1.3 million earmarked for staff home repairs.

Bartlett commended RIU and other hotels for their leadership, stressing that such commitments provide essential relief and signal confidence in the sector’s recovery trajectory.

In the meantime, Bartlett said that there is a firm commitment to continue worker rehabilitation programmes, noting that the sector will maintain programmes designed to support staff health, training and re-skilling where needed.

“This approach ensures that workers receive consistent, comprehensive support during reconstruction and recovery, and it helps preserve the long-term capacity of Jamaica’s hospitality sector,” he added.

The minister reaffirmed his gratitude for the sector’s response, stating that he is hoping other stakeholders will join in to maintain momentum.

“The true Jamaican spirit is on full display—an unwavering commitment to our people. As we rebuild, we rebuild together, with our workers at the centre of every plan and every dollar allocated,” he said.

— JIS