In a recent session closing the State of the Nation Debate, Government Senator Abka Fitz-Henley dismissed that tourism workers and other stakeholders, such as farmers, were not reaping the rewards of the sector’s substantial growth.
Contradicting assertions
Addressing these concerns, Fitz-Henley refuted claims that the benefits of tourism were exclusively concentrated among certain groups.
He acknowledged the ongoing efforts within the sector while conceding room for improvement, highlighting the substantial efforts made by portfolio Minister Edmund Bartlett.
Government initiatives showcased
Fitz-Henley spotlighted three key government initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity within the tourism value chain.
One such initiative involved the refinement of credit facilities at the EXIM Bank, specifically tailored to support small tourism enterprises across Jamaica.
This measure resulted in tourism loan disbursements exceeding J$1 billion last year, directly benefiting small- and medium-sized stakeholders.
Empowering Small Farmers
Additionally, Fitz-Henley emphasized the success of the Agri-Linkages Exchange (ALEX) platform, which facilitated over $1 billion in sales for small-scale farmers in the past year.
Through ALEX, local farmers with land holdings of up to five acres engage directly with hotels, ensuring fair compensation for their produce. This initiative, under the guidance of Minister Bartlett, has proven instrumental in empowering small farmers amidst Jamaica’s tourism boom.
Pension Scheme milestone
Highlighting another milestone, Fitz-Henley discussed the Tourism Workers Pension Scheme, which surpassed $1 billion in savings within eighteen months of its implementation.
He added that nearly 9,000 Jamaicans have enrolled in this scheme, designed to provide coverage for permanent, contract, or self-employed workers in the tourism sector aged 18 to 59 years.
This encompasses a wide array of professions, including hotel staff, craft vendors, tour operators, and attraction site workers.
