The JAMCOVID-19 Application site has outlived its usefulness and needs to be overhauled or scrapped altogether, the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) has said.

According to Clifton Reader, president of the JHTA, “JAMCOVID-19 was introduced at a time when our borders were just opening up after months of lockdown due to the pandemic. It was very useful in helping the Government to process persons coming into the island while the Ministry of Health worked to control the entry of infected persons and the spread of the disease. Now we’re well past that point. We have battled community spread, second and third phases of the pandemic and we’re working on achieving herd immunity with high levels of vaccinations”.

Reader noted that “with borders opening up all over the world, countries, in particular tourism destinations, are moving to simplify their entry procedures and if we don’t do likewise, we will be left behind. Most countries now have a simple, verifiable travel entry process that includes proof of vaccination or a negative antigen or PCR test taken within 48 hours of travel; this should be good enough for Jamaica”.

He added: “JAMCOVID-19, in its present format, is right now adding another unnecessary layer of bureaucracy and frustration as people wait impatiently for travel authorisation to come to Jamaica. It has served its purpose, now we need a new regime that is welcoming, stress free, simple and easy to navigate by nationals and visitors alike. Others are doing this very successfully and travellers are responding positively.”