Hon Jamell Robinson:  Tourism Vaccine Mandate, Impact on Tourism

#TurksandCaicos, October 22, 2021 – “Before commenting further on COVID-19, I would like to note how our number one industry is doing since the introduction of the new measures on September 1st 2021. The following statistics were provided by the TCI Airports Authority and the TCI Tourist Board.

In terms of passenger arrivals, September 2021 saw a 10% increase in arrivals compared to September 2019 i.e. just over 22,000 passengers versus slightly over 20,000 passengers. With the reintroduction of airline flights like Southwest Airlines and other carriers that will begin to fly again into our destination for the high season, we will continue to see positive growth. In terms of projected room nights, October 2021 is projected to have 10% more bookings compared to October 2019.

This is almost double the numbers from September 2021. As we look around, we can see more life and activity returning to these islands.

In East Harbour (South Caicos) last week where cabinet held its Strategic Retreat, I can tell you that having stayed at the East Bay Resort several times previously that place was full of life and activity for the first time. The new management group has found a way to attract folks to visit and the future looks brighter for the Big South.

As we’ve all seen by now, just days ago, your good, good government, the people’s government signed the amended development agreement with Carnival Cruise Line for the return of ships to the Nation’s Capital Grand Turk for December 7th, 2021 along with a $25 Million pier extension project to accommodate bigger ships.

This doesn’t even include the $4 million of infrastructural works that is allocated for improvements to get Grand Turk ready for the return of the cruising industry.

All and all, I dare say in the words of Patrice Roberts “Better days are coming.”