Letter of the Day | Sustain tourism by supporting workers
Published:Thursday | January 9, 2025 | 3:25 PM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
The recent strikes at Royalton, Negril and Secrets, Montego Bay reflect critical issues in Jamaica’s hotel sector, one of the island’s leading revenue earners. These disruptions highlight pressing concerns about working conditions in an industry where high-quality service depends on the well-being of its workers. As solutions are examined, it’s vital to consider not only policy changes but also engineering and infrastructural innovations that could address the root causes of these issues and foster a sustainable future for our tourism industry.
Engineering improvements could greatly enhance working conditions and support hotel staff. For instance, optimising heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems could increase comfort, especially in high-temperature areas where employees work long hours. Automated systems to manage lighting, temperature, and water flow could also reduce the physical and mental demands on workers maintaining expansive properties. This approach would lower energy costs, freeing up funds to improve employee wages and benefits – a central issue of these recent strikes.
Ergonomic designs in high-use areas such as kitchens and laundry rooms can further minimise physical strain, promoting healthier, more productive workflows. Additionally, investing in renewable energy infrastructure, like solar panels, would reduce operational costs, allowing for reinvestment in fair pay and improved working conditions.
Collaborative efforts with the Ministry of Labour, industry leaders, and engineering experts can enable sustainable, long-term solutions that prioritise employee welfare. Embracing these strategies would not only reflect international standards for responsible tourism. As we build a stronger tourism industry, it’s essential to invest in the health and safety of our workers – the foundation of Jamaica’s hospitality sector.
TAMI-LEIGH MITCHELL