Simpson Miller unveils tourism plans today

PORTIA SIMPSON Miller, Minister of Tourism and Sport, is to unveil her plans for tourism, when she makes her maiden speech on that portfolio this afternoon, in the Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives.

She has been speaking of a "people approach" to the industry, since assuming the position earlier this year. In various speeches on the subject, she has spoken of promoting tourism for Jamaicans as well as visitors, and of creating a partnership between industry players and the public.

Also, Mrs. Simpson Miller has said she will be taking on a personal challenge to move tourism beyond annual modest growth figures, to make the island a top earner from the industry and to involve the country's culture in its development.

She will address issues such as women's welfare, sport and entertainment which have been added to her ministry.

In this year's Budget the Ministry of Tourism and Sport has been allocated $1.4 billion to cover recurrent expenditure and $200 million for capital expenditure.

Capital programmes costing $60 million, have been budgeted for this year. They include a visitor information programme and resort patrol service, to minimise crime against and harassment of visitors. And there is a $36- million grant for "seat risk support", guaranteeing discounted charter flights for visitors to Jamaica.

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