Dear editor,

Recent protests by hospitality workers have highlighted long-standing issues related to poor pay and working conditions in Jamaica’s hospitality industry.

This assertiveness stems from several factors, including higher education levels among workers, low unemployment, and the near-full employment our economy enjoys. This dynamic has empowered workers to demand better treatment – ​​a demand that is not only justified, but long overdue.

For years, hospitality workers have suffered mistreatment, often considered a secondary consideration in the planning and development of the tourism sector. Even though the industry has evolved from a heavy reliance on seasonal employment to initiatives such as pension plans, workers still do not receive the respect or resources they deserve. Issues such as inadequate housing, lack of social protection systems and lack of comprehensive worker-focused policies highlight the neglect they face.

Hospitality management must recognize that employees are a critical part of the industry’s success. Without a stable and satisfied workforce, the quality of Jamaica’s tourism product is at risk.

The government also has a responsibility to protect workers’ rights. Historically, successive ministers have prioritized the interests of hotel owners over those of workers, leaving the latter without the necessary support or advocacy. This imbalance must change.

The creation of a sector council to focus on sustainable employment practices and fair treatment of workers should be implemented immediately. Such an entity would help resolve long-standing issues, improve conditions for workers and ensure the continued growth and success of Jamaica’s tourism industry.

Significant emphasis has been placed on training by HEART/NSTA Trust and, more recently, by the Jamaica Center for Tourism Innovation (JCTI). Selected high schools are now offering the Hospitality and Tourism Management programme, underscoring the government’s seriousness about careers in hospitality. So it stands to reason that it’s time for workers to benefit from better treatment and support.

If immediate action is not taken, Jamaica risks damaging its largest industry. In 2023, Jamaica welcomed approximately 4.1 million visitors and earned US$4.3 billion from the tourism sector. Now is the time for all stakeholders – hoteliers, government and the general public – to come together to ensure that the people who make Jamaica’s tourism industry thrive are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.

Denworth Finnikin

[email protected]