AMIDST THE DOOM AND GLOOM of a struggling economy, hearing Minister of Tourism Richard Sealy express his optimism earlier this week about Barbados’ tourism performance this year should have been music to the ears.
The delightful symphony and melody was played out at some recent tourism-related events that attracted the minister and some top-flight industry officials.
We recognise, though, that the minister’s note of optimism was in sharp contrast to the pessimism expressed some weeks ago by chief executive officer of the Barbados Hotel Tourism Association, Rudy Grant, who described the start to the winter season as rocky.
At that time, he projected lower numbers in stayover arrivals, an anticipated decline in overall hotel occupancy and lower visitor spend.
While hearts might have sunk at this grim news, there is no doubt they would have been lifted after the more heartening and hopeful news from Mr Sealy.
The mixed messages coming from our tourism officials can lead to confusion and beg the question of what is the true picture of the industry. Tourism is still Barbados’ biggest foreign exchange earner and, given the state of the economy, it is important that no effort be spared to protect the investments.
There has never been a more critical time for serious steps to be taken across the tourism landscape of this country. And given the important juncture at which we have found ourselves, there is no doubt that every dollar counts; and every comment regarding its state willbe important in determining where we go and how we respond to circumstances.
We heard the minister outline details as they relate to hotel developments, increased airlift and the thousands of jobs which will be created, which are welcome and much needed at this time. We hope the event at which he spoke was not another “talk shop” that yields no results.
We cannot afford to play around with tourism. Hence, it is crucial that all the major stakeholders get on boardif there is to be success in all the minister has outlined.
It is also important for every individual to understand the importance of this industry to our everyday livelihood. The once-used slogan Tourism Is Our Business; Let’s Play Our Part has not grown old – even to this day.
There is no doubt that precious tourism dollars are needed to help bail us out of this economic dark hole we are in. With major investments and brand names like the Hyatt Hotel, Wyndham Sam Lord’s Castle and two Sandals resorts coming soon, we look forward to the promised major boost in Barbados.
