Devon Evans, Gleaner Writer

Cummings

Ocho Rios, St Ann:

The present financial and economic difficulties being experienced in the United States (US) have placed the local tourist industry in jeopardy, said Wayne Cummings, president of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association.

Furthermore, the high level of violence throughout the country is posing a challenge to growth and the development of the industry, he warned.

Cummings said though double-digit growth in tourist arrivals was recorded last year, the present challenges facing the industry will make it extremely difficult to repeat the 2007 performance.

He was the guest speaker at the annual staff award ceremony of the Royal Plantation Hotel in Ocho Rios, St Ann, held last Friday.

Expected downturn

Pointing to an expected downturn in the US market as a result of the recession in that country, Cummings said, "Even if it does not mean negative growth, it could severely inhibit our expected growth performance."

He added, however, that although Jamaica cannot do anything about the situation in the US, the people of Jamaica must find a way to reduce the scourge of violence in the country.

"If we don't find a way to stop exacting violence against each other, for whatever reason, we are running the risk of being alienated from the rest of the modern world," he said.

Noting the negative effect violence can have on the economic growth of the country, and the prosperity of the people, Cummings said that those with a voice and eyes to see what is happening, including tourism workers, should take it upon themselves to speak out.

"It cannot be hard to talk our problems through, instead of using a weapon to end it prematurely."

At last Friday's award ceremony, Fabian Walters of the accounting department, walked away with the top prize of Employee of the Year. Runner-up was Andrean Williams of the kitchen department.

Other top awardees were Daderia Dunn - Most Improved Team Member - and Junior Kelly - Employee with the Best Team Spirit.