TPDCo neglecting its duty
Published:Saturday | March 15, 2014 | 12:00 AM
THE EDITOR, Sir:
While we were decoyed by Vybz Kartel's trial, the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) escaped the public's attention as they slothfully handled their duties in developing the country's tourism industry.
With such high unemployment in Jamaica, the management of TPDCo has ignored its mandate and has been allowed to breathe easy while so many Jamaicans remain jobless, languishing in the wilderness of poverty.
It is inconceivable that of the approximately J$616 million budgeted for projects for the 2013-2014 financial year, only JM$94 million has been spent, while more than J$350 million has been spent on TPDCo salaries. Salaries for what? According to TVJ's Prime Time News report aired on March 12, 2014, only $4.6m of $39m; $3.7m of $101m, and $13m of $114 million was spent on TPDCo projects in Kingston, Montego Bay, and Negril, respectively.
Those in charge have been receiving salaries under false pretences and seem only to have a bunch of excuses to offer to the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee and the Jamaican populace. Those responsible for such poor execution of their duties must not be allowed to get off scot-free.
The need for such development in Montego Bay, for example, is most crucial. Tourists no longer venture into town because there is nothing to do or see. After taking their fill at a choice all-inclusive hotel on MoBay's pristine coast, the waiting visitor has nothing else to do and this is where TPDCo comes in - to ensure that the city has more to offer.
Areas that can be used for attractions and are potential foreign exchange earners are poorly kept. There are no accessible restroom facilities and the consequences of that are evident at every urine-stained corner. The wall of one 'hotel' on Harbour Street is a disgrace, with heavy urine and graffiti. Walking by it is literally hazardous to health and tourists are expected to go there - God forbid!
There is inadequate parking in the vicinity of the Craft Market on that same street and the condition of the market is in no way attractive, not to mention Sam Sharpe Square.
Heads must roll if the Government is serious about the mandate given to the TPDCo. It cannot be just business as usual.
We need responsible persons to take on Jamaica's development challenges, people who are efficient, deliberate and meticulous in carrying out the nation's business.
DERVILLE LOWE
Montego Bay, St James