Kingston, Jamaica; Monday, July 29, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has challenged the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean’s (UCC) 2024 graduating class to arise and take their rightful place in shaping Jamaica’s future. Delivering the keynote address at the institution’s commencement ceremony yesterday (July 28) at the National Arena, where he was also conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Tourism and Hospitality Management, Minister Bartlett lauded the UCC’s role in developing the nation’s human capital.

“This theme, ‘It’s a New Beginning…Arise and Take Your Place,’ is not only fitting for our graduates, who are stepping into new chapters of their lives, but also for the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) as it embarks on a new era,” Minister Bartlett stated.

Highlighting the UCC’s pivotal role in workforce development, the Minister emphasized the institution’s Bachelor of Science degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management as a critical component of the Ministry’s efforts to build capacity within the sector. “This programme, along with UCC’s emphasis on workforce development strategies, will help ensure that our tourism industry remains competitive, sustainable, and capable of providing meaningful career opportunities,” he asserted.

In accepting the Honorary Doctorate, Minister Bartlett expressed his appreciation for the recognition and reiterated his commitment to Jamaica’s tourism industry's continued growth and development. 

“This recognition is not just a personal accolade but a testament to the collective efforts of everyone who has contributed to the development of Jamaica’s tourism industry. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to UCC for this honour,” he said.

At the same time, the tourism minister acknowledged his fellow honourees: Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International (SRI) and Chairman of the Ministry’s Tourism Linkages Council, Mr. Adam Stewart, who was conferred with the Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration award; Dr. Patricia V. Smith, who received an Honorary Doctorate in Behavioral Sciences; and Virgin Group founder, Sir Richard Branson, who received an Honorary Doctorate in Business and Entrepreneurship.

Minister Bartlett’s address concluded with a passionate call to action for the graduating class. “You are the future leaders, innovators, and change-makers,” he stressed. “Your role in the future of tourism and other sectors will be pivotal. With the advancements in AI and other technologies, the world is changing rapidly. UCC graduates are uniquely positioned to drive these changes, ensuring that Jamaica remains at the forefront of innovation and sustainable development,” added the tourism minister. 

The UCC’s commencement ceremony, which saw approximately 1,000 graduates crossing the stage, was also marked by the installation of Professor Colin Gyles as the institution’s fourth president.

Kingston, Jamaica; Thursday, July 25, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett has welcomed Avelo Airlines’ announcement that it will be introducing new direct flights between Hartford, Connecticut and Montego Bay, Jamaica, starting November 16, 2024. These non-stop flights will operate twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, providing an accessible and affordable travel option for passengers.

Minister Bartlett, commended this new development, stating: “We are extremely pleased to welcome Avelo Airlines to Montego Bay with their new direct flights from Hartford, Connecticut. This route is of great significance as Connecticut and the surrounding areas represent a major market for visitors to Jamaica. Additionally, these regions have a high concentration of Jamaica's Diaspora, making this new service a vital link for families and friends. We are confident that this new connection will not only enhance convenience for travellers but also boost tourism and strengthen the cultural ties between our nations.”

Avelo Airlines announced this expansion as part of the largest growth initiative in its history, introducing nonstop service from Bradley International Airport to seven new destinations, including its first-ever international flights. Alongside Montego Bay, Avelo will also launch flights to Cancun, Mexico, beginning November 20, 2024.

“The Ministry of Tourism commends Avelo Airlines for recognizing the value of expanding their service to Jamaica and looks forward to a successful partnership that will benefit both destinations,” Minister Bartlett added.

Founded in 2021, Avelo Airlines has quickly established itself as a leading ultra-low-cost carrier in the United States. With a focus on providing affordable and convenient travel options, Avelo has rapidly expanded its network to include a variety of domestic and international destinations. The airline’s commitment to customer satisfaction and innovative service has made it a popular choice among travellers.

Kingston, Jamaica; Thursday, July 25, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, is set to be conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Hospitality & Tourism Management (Honoris Causa) by the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC) at its commencement ceremony on Sunday, July 28, 2024. This prestigious distinction recognizes Minister Bartlett’s exceptional contribution to the tourism industry, both locally and globally.

Throughout his distinguished career, Minister Bartlett has demonstrated remarkable leadership in making tourism a key driver of sustainable growth in Jamaica. His focus on job creation, wealth distribution, inclusion, and fostering community development has ensured that the benefits of tourism reach all Jamaicans. A leading voice for tourism resilience, his role in co-founding the Global Tourism Resilience & Crisis Management Centre (GTRCMC) in 2018 has helped forge a more resilient future for tourism worldwide.

In response, Minister Bartlett expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this recognition from the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean. This award is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone in the tourism sector.” 

“Together, we have made significant strides in building a sustainable and resilient industry that benefits all Jamaicans. It is a privilege to serve Jamaica and contribute to the growth and development of our tourism sector,” added Mr. Bartlett, who will also deliver the keynote address at the event.

It was noted that other distinguished individuals will also be conferred with honorary doctoral degrees during the ceremony. These include Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International (SRI) and Chairman of the Ministry’s Tourism Linkages Council, Adam Stewart, who will be conferred with the Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) in Business Administration award.

The Ministry of Tourism and its public bodies extend sincere congratulations to Minister Bartlett and Mr. Stewart on this well-deserved honour.

Kingston, Jamaica; Thursday, July 18, 2024: In his closing presentation of the 2024/2025 Sectoral Debate in the Houses of Parliament on Tuesday (July 16), Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, unveiled a comprehensive threefold strategy designed to bolster tourism growth amidst global economic uncertainties, airline capacity issues, and other challenges. 

“We are contending with global economic uncertainties, airline capacity issues, and challenging travel advisories such as the United States travel advisory issued in January, which made concerning claims about safety and medical services in Jamaica – all of which pose potential obstacles to our continued growth,” Minister Bartlett stated. He continued, “While showing overall resilience, inflation and geopolitical issues pose risks to economic stability and may temper travel demand by affecting consumer confidence and spending patterns.” 

Despite these challenges, the Ministry of Tourism is taking proactive measures to ensure Jamaica remains a top choice for travellers. Minister Bartlett outlined the threefold strategy:

1. Market Diversification: “We are intensifying our efforts to diversify our source markets, focusing on Latin America and the Middle East. This strategy will help 'future-proof' our growth by reducing our dependence on traditional markets.”
2. Marketing Enhancement: “We will significantly enhance our digital and traditional marketing presence, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and platforms to reach potential visitors more effectively and efficiently and enable us to measure the return on investment of our marketing dollar.”
3. Airlift Improvement: “We are working closely with airline partners to maintain and improve airlift to Jamaica. This includes exploring new routes and partnerships to ensure our island remains easily accessible to visitors from around the world.”

Moreover, the tourism minister highlighted ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure and product development. “Our goal is to offer unique, high-quality experiences that set Jamaica apart from other destinations. We are committed to sustainable tourism practices that not only attract visitors but also benefit our local communities and preserve our natural resources,” he added. 

Minister Bartlett praised the resilience of Jamaica’s tourism sector and the unwavering spirit of the Jamaican people saying, “While these challenges are significant, I stand before this Honourable House confident in our ability to overcome them. With our strategic approach, the innate resilience of our tourism sector, and the unwavering spirit of our people, I am certain that we will not only navigate these headwinds successfully but emerge stronger, continuing to grow and thrive in the global tourism market.” 

He concluded, “Jamaica's tourism sector has faced challenges before and, each time, we have not just survived but thrived. This time will be no different. We are Jamaica, resilient, resourceful, and ready for whatever comes our way.”

Kingston, Jamaica; Thursday, July 18, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, detailed the significant progress being made in establishing Jamaica as a key supply logistics center for the Caribbean cruise industry during his closing presentation of the 2024/2025 Sectoral Debate in Parliament. This development, he believes, will revolutionize Jamaica’s tourism sector and create unprecedented opportunities for local businesses.

“Several major cruise lines, including industry leaders such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC, and Norwegian cruise lines, have expressed keen interest in sourcing more of their global product needs from Jamaica,” Minister Bartlett revealed. 

“This strategic recognition of Jamaica’s potential is not merely a gesture of goodwill. The cruise lines have made it clear that they are prepared to significantly increase their procurement of Jamaican products, provided these goods meet their exacting standards for quality, consistency, and reliable supply,” the tourism minister outlined. 

He further explained that this presents an excellent opportunity for Jamaica’s farmers, manufacturers, artisans, and other small and medium-sized enterprises, opening up a vast new market for local products and potentially transforming the economic landscape.

However, Minister Bartlett acknowledged the challenges this opportunity presents. “Meeting the stringent requirements of these global cruise lines demands a level of product sophistication, quality control, and supply chain efficiency that many of our local businesses may not yet possess,” he said. 

Notwithstanding this, he noted that to address these challenges, the Tourism Linkages Network, a division of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), has been working tirelessly to prepare local businesses for this opportunity. Through targeted initiatives, they have been equipping local enterprises with the skills and knowledge needed to meet international standards.

“This is more than just an economic opportunity,” Bartlett stressed. “It is a chance for Jamaica to showcase our products on a global stage, to demonstrate that our goods are not just ‘good enough’ for local consumption but are world-class and worthy of being served to discerning travellers from around the globe,” he continued.

Minister Bartlett also commended Jamaica Vacations Ltd. (JAMVAC) for their excellent work in marketing Jamaica as a premier cruise destination. “Their efforts have not only ensured that Jamaica remains a top choice for cruise lines but have also paved the way for these deeper economic partnerships,” he added.

The envisioned logistics center aligns perfectly with the Ministry’s vision of a “caring economy.” Minister Bartlett emphasized, “This initiative creates opportunities not just within tourism, but across various sectors. It empowers local businesses, fosters job creation, and ensures that a larger slice of the tourism pie directly benefits Jamaican workers and entrepreneurs.”

Kingston, Jamaica; Wednesday, July 17, 2024: Despite the recent challenges posed by Hurricane Beryl, Jamaica’s tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience, welcoming over 105,000 stopover visitors since reopening its ports. This impressive statistic, announced by the Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, during his closing presentation of the 2024/2025 Sectoral Debate in Parliament, underscores the industry’s strength and its significant contribution to the Jamaican economy.

“On July 2nd and 3rd, we had no visitors arriving in Jamaica but on the Fourth of July, we started receiving visitors again and in just 11 days, I reiterate for emphasis that we have brought in 105,000 stopover visitors. This is what resilience looks like!” Minister Bartlett stated. 

He noted that the rapid rebound is a testament to Jamaica’s well-honed disaster preparedness plans and the unwavering spirit of its tourism stakeholders. The tourism minister further explained that the arrival numbers received a significant bump thanks to patrons visiting for Reggae Sumfest 2024, currently underway in Montego Bay. 

Minister Bartlett also reiterated the industry’s impressive performance over the past year. Gross earnings surged to US$4.38 billion, reflecting a remarkable 9.6% increase compared to the previous fiscal year. This growth is fueled by a record-breaking 2.96 million stopover arrivals, representing a 9.4% rise over 2022/2023.

The tourism minister went on to highlight that the resilience extends beyond stopover arrivals as cruise tourism has also experienced a significant resurgence, with a 16% increase year-on-year. Jamaica has already hosted nearly 800,000 cruise passengers in the first half of 2024. 

“We have already welcomed 2.4 million visitors to our island this year, keeping us well on track to achieve our annual target of 4.3 million,” Minister Bartlett shared. He added, “These figures are not just numbers. They represent jobs for our people, opportunities for our businesses and a stronger, more resilient economy for Jamaica. They affirm our position as a premier Caribbean destination and underscore the effectiveness of our tourism strategies.”

GREEN ISLAND, Hanover, Jamaica – Monday, July 15, 2024 – Minister of Tourism Hon. Edmund Bartlett eagerly anticipates the September opening of the Princess Grand and Princess Senses The Mangrove, the first phase of a planned 2,036-room hotel development in Green Island, Hanover. Upon completion of the second phase, this project will become one of Jamaica’s largest resorts, significantly boosting the island's tourism offerings.

Minister Bartlett and other senior tourism officials received a progress update on construction and preparations for the 1,005-room resort and casino during a property tour on July 12th. The tour was guided by Robert Cabrera Plana, owner of Princess Hotels and Resorts, and Managing Director Enrico Pezzoli.

“I am excited to welcome Princess Resorts to Jamaica’s product offering,” said Minister Bartlett. “This significant investment will create substantial employment opportunities and further solidify Jamaica’s position as a premier tourist destination.”

Construction is proceeding on schedule, with Mr. Cabrera confirming a September opening. He stated confidently, “A hundred per cent, we will open in September.”

The resort is expected to create significant employment opportunities, with an initial workforce of 1,200 people growing to a peak of 1,500 employees. Minister Bartlett expressed particular satisfaction with the employment opportunities generated by the project, especially during the construction phase.

Among the resort’s features will be six specialty restaurants, one featuring an all-Jamaican menu.

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica; Monday, July 8, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett has revealed that Jamaica’s first Gastronomy Academy will be in operation at the Montego Bay Convention Centre by the end of 2024. In making the announcement yesterday (July 7), Minister Bartlett said the academy will be opened “for the winter tourist season this year.”

He said with the convention center already boasting “the largest and best kitchen, arguably in the Caribbean,” it will be complemented by a gourmet restaurant to be established also at the convention center as the training ground for the academy’s students.

The disclosure was made as Minister Bartlett congratulated entrepreneur Zelecia Smith on marking the fifth anniversary of her Paris Ruby Gourmet pastry venture, at Pier 1. 

“We’re going to be having young people like Zelecia becoming part of this, because we’re not only now going to be training executive chefs and sous chefs and trying to make people into Michelin-standard performers for the business of cuisine development and great restaurants,” he said.

Briefly commenting on the performance of the convention center, Mr. Bartlett also congratulated Executive Director, Mureen James and her team “because they took a convention center which was a losing proposition for us and in six months this year, they have already increased their yearly projection by ten percent.”

Pointing to this as proof of the facility’s tremendous potential, Minister Bartlett highlighted that “when we add to it a gourmet restaurant, a gastronomy academy and later on the entertainment academy, the convention center in Jamaica will be ready for take-off.”

A new board of directors was named for the convention center last month and Chairman Bertram Wright said, “on the agenda, it’s one of the priority items that we plan to pursue.”

Turning to Ms. Smith, Minister Bartlett lauded her for her entrepreneurial drive, “for your tenacity, your assiduity to purpose and the fact that you showed us that a young person with talent, skill and determination, with commitment and a vision can stay the long haul.”

A former banker, Ms. Smith gave up her career in finance to pursue her passion for baking, specializing in fruitcakes, cheesecakes, bread puddings and banana breads.

In an emotional presentation, Ms. Smith related her journey in creating Paris Ruby products, inspired by her mother’s special pancake, and said her goal was to make them available internationally. “A lot of sacrifices went into Paris Ruby and I can’t give up, I can’t give up,” she said tearfully.

In this regard, Minister Bartlett invited her to participate in the Ministry’s Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF)/EXIM Bank programme for Small and medium-sized tourism enterprises (SMTEs), with a chance of getting a $25-million loan for five years at four and a half percent interest, for expansion. “We’re about upskilling, expanding, enabling the small enterprises in tourism to become large enterprises in time,” he said.

As an ardent supporter of the Tourism Linkages Network’s “Christmas in July” tradeshow and other promotional events staged by the TEF, Ms. Smith also spoke of her desire to assist other enterprising persons to grow their businesses and she invited a number of small manufacturers to share her space and gain exposure during the celebratory event.

KINGSTON, July 4, 2024 – Jamaica’s reputation for resilience continues as Hurricane Beryl moved past on July 3. Jamaica‘s hotels and resorts were well-prepared as staff and guests remained safe during the storm. 

Jamaica’s airports and cruise ports have announced plans for re-opening:

• Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay is currently scheduled to re-open at 6:00 p.m. today, July 4.
• Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in Kingston is currently scheduled to re-open at 5:00 a.m. on Friday, July 5. 
• The Ian Fleming International Airport (IFIA) in Ocho Rios is currently open. 
• Jamaica’s Cruise Ports (Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Falmouth) are currently open.

Visitors are advised to contact their travel advisor and airline provider for updates before arriving at the airports. 

“Jamaica is open for business and, once again, the resilience of the Jamaican people is on full display,” said Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett. “We are grateful that there has been no wide-scale impact to our general tourism infrastructure and our tourism industry is fully operational. Our message to our partners and visitors is Jamaica is ready for you, so come back to the destination you love.”

Donovan White, Director of Tourism for the Jamaica Tourist Board, encouraged tourism industry partners across the world to spread the word that Jamaica is open. “We are ready, willing, and more than able to welcome our guests back to our beautiful island,” said Director White. 

Jamaica has welcomed more than two million visitors thus far in 2024, more than ever reported during the period of January to May, further solidifying its position as one of the world’s leading island travel destinations.

Kingston, Jamaica; Thursday, July 4, 2024: Following the passage of Hurricane Beryl, Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett has indicated that based on information collected by the Tourism Emergency Operations Centre (TEOC), Jamaica’s tourism sector has not experienced any major fallout from the weather system. 

“While there have been some reports of fallen trees, debris, flooding and power outages, we are grateful that there has been no wide-scale impact to our general tourism infrastructure,” said Minister Bartlett. 

The TEOC reported that a limited number of tourists required relocation due to blocked roadways or due to precautionary measures. “Thanks to the collaborative efforts of our TEOC team and tourism partners, visitors were safely relocated from one location to another,” Mr. Bartlett explained. 

The tourism minister continued: “We are also aware of isolated reports of property damage. Post-hurricane impact assessments are now underway and are being led by the Tourism Product Development Company’s (TPDCo) product quality team, and we will have a clearer picture of the steps that will have to be taken to address any concerns in the coming days.”

“I commend our tourism partners and representatives of the Ministry of Tourism and its public bodies, including members of the TEOC team, for working closely and tirelessly to mitigate the impact of Beryl, which will also facilitate a speedy recovery,” Minister Bartlett underscored.

“Our resilience and collaboration in the face of adversity was again demonstrated over the last few days, and I am confident that the industry will recover rapidly and emerge even stronger,” Bartlett added. 

The TEOC serves as the central hub for coordinating emergency response and recovery efforts within the tourism sector. Serving as the official source of information for the tourism industry, the TEOC is located at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel and was officially activated on July 2.