NEGRIL, Westmoreland — Jamaica’s tourism industry is navigating a complex recovery path following the extensive damage inflicted by Hurricane Melissa approximately one month ago. Key stakeholders in Negril, renowned for its high concentration of small hospitality businesses, are advocating for targeted government assistance to accelerate rehabilitation efforts.
Daniel Grizzle, operator of Charela Inn Hotel and former president of the Negril Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the unique challenges facing smaller establishments. He proposed concrete financial solutions including low-interest loans capped at 2.5% for USD financing and 5% for Jamaican dollar facilities, alongside direct grants specifically for West End properties. “This recovery presents an opportunity to enhance our tourism product fundamentally,” Grizzle stated in discussions with Observer Online. “Supporting smaller properties to upgrade their facilities will ultimately elevate Negril’s overall market competitiveness.”
The call for intervention found resonance with Richard Wallace, Managing Director of Boardwalk Village and Chairman of the Negril Destination Assurance Council. Wallace drew parallels to pandemic-era support mechanisms, noting: “As during COVID-19, there’s reasonable expectation for government assistance when sectors face devastating circumstances. While acknowledging national recovery complexities involving public infrastructure, prioritizing tourism revival remains crucial for economic stabilization.”
Responding to these concerns, Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) Executive Director Dr. Carey Wallace outlined multifaceted recovery initiatives. Beyond enterprise-focused financial instruments, TEF is implementing worker-centered support programs recognizing the distinct nature of this disaster. “Unlike the pandemic where workers retained assets, many now face personal property damage,” Dr. Wallace explained. “We’re developing rebuilding kits for tourism workers and expanding existing loan facilities through EXIM Bank and Jamaica National to ensure comprehensive sector rehabilitation.”
Despite current challenges, market indicators show promising resilience with room bookings and attraction visits gradually resuming. Industry observers suggest smaller operators might leverage temporary closures of larger hotels for renovations, potentially capturing market share during the interim recovery period.