The Ministry of Tourism and the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), recognizing the challenging environment of the travel and tourism industry, convened with the Board of Directors of the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association (SLHTA) on Friday March 13, 2020, to discuss the global impact of COVID-19 on the tourism sector.

Led by Tourism Minister, Honourable Dominic Fedee, the meeting focused on gaining first-hand information on the overall status of the tourism industry over the next ninety days.

“This is part of our national strategy to make informed decisions to ensure the ultimate rebounding of the tourism industry. Considerations are already being undertaken for the recovery phase as we must ensure that Saint Lucia is positioned to regain its market share when the travel landscape changes,” said Minister Fedee.

Approximately 50 perecnt of the accommodation sector and ancillary services were represented at Friday’s meeting.

SLHTA President Karolin Troubetzkoy speaking on Friday’s meeting said: “The SLHTA is committed to collaborating closely with the SLTA and the Ministry of Tourism to safeguard the tourism industry and our economy, but most importantly, safeguard the country and do what is best for our citizens and visitors alike in these difficult times.”

Similar dialog has taken place with travel trade partners, airlines and media.