EDITORIAL - Tourism, investors vital

Barbados, over the years, has become a much desired holiday destination for visitors from the United States, United Kingdom, Europe and Canada, thanks largely to the sustained marketing efforts of the various organisations tasked with promoting tourism, hoteliers, as well as positive word-of-mouth advertising. 

 

The island is also considered an attractive real estate option for higher income investors looking for part time homes. This too is as a result of strategic planning and is no mere coincidence. 

 

However, with the exit of the UK from the European Union and the future of Barbados’ relationship with the UK and the EU up in the air, has there been any real examination of what a potential fall-off means for our economy?

 

Government is on record as having earmarked significant sums to promote Barbados in our major markets – such as the UK – and currently are focusing heavily on new investments in the pipeline. The Wyndham project at the Sam Lord’s Castle is an example of such investments. Furthermore, Prime Minister Freundel Stuart has met with Heads of Government in Guyana recently to determine the way forward as ‘Brexit’ proceeds.

 

Almost a decade ago, Minister Sealy revealed his philosophy on tourism, indicating that he wanted to see more Barbadians taking part in tourism, not only at the level of management and marketing, but also in an ownership role. He has since reiterated this point. 

 

By and large, however, do we see ourselves in this light? It is clear that the majority of Barbadians cherish their freedom to experience all that this island has to offer, and will not sit idly by if they feel they are being disadvantaged. This is as it should be. For this reason, interaction with proposed investors and planners should be healthy and must be a part of any major developments that could possibly affect residents.

 

We must be careful, however, that in our deliberations, we do not give the impression that we encourage an 'anti-investment' sentiment which will scare investors away. Over the years, we have discussed at length the negative effects that bureaucracy is having on the investment, international business and other sectors, and have expressed the need for far-reaching improvements to be made in the areas of timeliness of decision-making and implementation. We cannot afford to have any other stumbling blocks placed in the way of investment in our country.

 

Tourism planners are trying their best to encourage international hotel chains to establish their brands on the island; Port St. Charles in St. Peter has expanded and we also have Port Ferdinand to capture luxury yachts; and generally initiatives are afoot to demonstrate to potential tourists and investors that Barbados is a high quality destination, with standards of excellence, a safe and clean environment, good customer service, and warm, welcoming people. 

 

Investors must be told in clear and specific terms what we will and will not tolerate. This requires a specific policy from the government (after consultation with the people), and adherence to said policy by all involved. 

 

On the other hand, Barbadians must buy in to that policy, recognising that without tourism and investors, this island will not survive.