Press Releases
Kingston, Jamaica. April 17, 2024: Janice Allen, the Shadow Minister for Tourism, is sounding the alarm on the critical water shortage in Negril, emphasising its devastating impact on the tourism sector, which is a cornerstone of the economy. Allen is calling for immediate governmental action to resolve the water scarcity that is now threatening both the livelihood of residents and the viability of Negril’s tourism industry.
Home to nearly 7,000 accommodation units, from small bed and breakfasts to large-scale hotels, Negril’s tourism infrastructure is crippled by the inadequate provision of essential services such as water and sewage systems. Despite the area generating significant tourism earnings and contributing to the overall US$4 billion last year, Allen points out the stark lack of reinvestment in necessary infrastructure that would support the sustainable development of tourism.
Industry partners have voiced their concerns through Allen, detailing the severe financial strain as they resort to expensive measures like trucking in water costing up to $45,000 per trip and in some instances totalling almost half a million for the month for some small properties. “This is a dire situation where businesses are forced to allocate substantial resources just to meet basic water needs, which should instead be invested back into enhancing guest experiences and expanding our tourism offerings,” Allen remarked.
Allen criticised the government’s slow response and lack of prioritisation, noting that despite repeated promises, there has been no significant investment in water infrastructure in Negril over the last eight years. “The current administration must understand the urgency of this matter and the direct connection between tourism’s viability and the country’s infrastructure,” asserts Allen.
The Shadow Minister is calling for an emergency response, including the engagement of the army’s engineer corps, to fast track the much-delayed long-term solutions. She expressed dismay at the projected two-year timeline to complete one of the major water projects in Negril and called for the Minister of Tourism to apply pressure on the government to expedite these critical infrastructure projects which are crucial to the industry’s survial.
Allen concluded, “Our tourism industry, which is celebrated by the Minister at every opportunity, deserves more than just accolades—it needs action. We cannot allow this water crisis to further damage our reputation and the economic health of Negril.”
