Jamaica establishes $1 billion fund for tourism workers following Hurricane Melissa

Jamaica's Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, has announced a $1 billion fund to assist tourism workers impacted by Hurricane Melissa, with the government contributing $600 million and the private sector adding $400 million.

"The Government of Jamaica is putting $600 million, along with the private sector, which is contributing some $400 million, in creating a fund of over a $1 billion for the tourism workers housing and other rehabilitation needs," Bartlett said during a tourism recovery tour of Ocho Rios on November 20.

The minister explained that "This blended approach to funding will enable Destination Jamaica to deploy relief resources more efficiently, by capitalizing on long established public-private sector partnerships."

Tourism workers affected by the hurricane are currently receiving care packages from employers, as well as interest-free loans. 

Some companies are also assisting with rebuilding homes for displaced workers after assessing damage.

Several hotels and tourism entities in western Jamaica were forced to close due to the hurricane's impact. 

Bartlett has challenged industry workers in Ocho Rios to lead the recovery effort.

The minister projects that full recovery of the tourism sector will take time but maintains that Jamaica will be open for the winter tourist season starting December 15, 2025.

According to Barlett, at least one large hotel in Ocho Rios is already recording 40% occupancy following the hurricane, and the resort area is expecting 18 cruise ship calls for November.

"Ocho Rios is the resort area that is most complete in its readiness for both ends of the tourism spectrum - cruise as well as stopovers," Bartlett said.

The minister will take the message of recovery and resilience to Jamaica's principal source markets over the next two weeks.

"On December 15th when we roll out significantly, we will be saying to the world, you can come and have your experiences in the varied destinations that are in Destination Jamaica," Bartlett said.

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