Prime Minister Andrew Holness has reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the workers of the tourism industry as they seek fair compensation and improved working conditions. He also affirmed that the government would play its part in facilitating discussions and easing the cost of living burden on workers.

A final announcement regarding relief on tips earned by tourism workers will be made in the next budget, Holness revealed.

Several tourism workers across the sector have been staging protests over the last few weeks to voice their frustration with what they say is poor working conditions and wages.

“I have noted the concerns of other stakeholders in the industry, particularly those involved in the craft sector, who were badly affected by the decline in cruise ship visitors,” Holness said.

“To lighten the burden they are currently facing, the government will waive fees for all craft vendors in government-owned craft markets for the months of December and January, and we will write off any outstanding fees owed by the craft vendors. This is designed to ease the economic burden on craft entrepreneurs and give them a head start in the upcoming winter tourist season.”

He added that the craft vendors in St Ann have been hit the hardest due to the damage to the Ocho Rios cruise ship pier. “As such, I have instructed that the waiver of fees for craft vendors in St Ann will be extended until June when the pier is expected to reopen,” he said.

Holness also noted that a new social welfare programme for tourism workers will commence next year, which will include the construction of houses for needy tourism workers.