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Minister Bartlett Assures Jamaica Remains Safe for Visitors

Release Date: 
Monday, January 22, 2018 - 11:45

KINGSTON, Jamaica; January 19, 2018 Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Edmund Bartlett would like to reassure visitors that Jamaica remains safe during the State of Public Emergency for the Parish of St. James. The action taken by the Government is not arbitrary as it required a great deal of strategic planning.

“The present state of global security has created a heightened sense of awareness in travelers,” said Minister Bartlett. “These enhanced security measures are not out of the ordinary in international tourism markets and therefore would be understood by visitors and welcomed by residents.”

The Jamaican citizenry have been supportive of this action with a resident from the affected area declaring, “This is the best thing that could have happened at this time. It is like a belated Christmas gift.”

“All members of the tourism fraternity have given their full support to the measure and are feeling that these actions are welcome to ensure the safety of Jamaica’s guests and citizens,” added Minister Bartlett.

What is a State of Public Emergency

·         A State of Public Emergency is a tool to ensure enhanced security for all entering and leaving a particular geographic area.

·         Law enforcement agents are trained in human rights and will appropriately interact with all persons.

·         Persons may be stopped at various check points and asked for information to verify identity.

·         There is no need to modify movements as restrictions in the stated areas should not adversely impact law abiding persons.

·         All business activities will function as normal including all airports, cruise ports, hotels, and attractions

Jamaica remains a safe place for tourists and the statistics reflect this fact. Jamaica’s overall crime rate in respect to crimes against visitors is .01%. 

Every year, Jamaica welcomes visitors and volunteers from around the world to enjoy all that Jamaica has to offer. Provisional data shows a record breaking 4.3 million tourists visited Jamaica in 2017, which represents a 12.1 per cent increase over arrivals in 2016.