A broad-based salary survey has reportedly revealed that Jamaica’s tourism sector offers competitive remuneration but also highlights opportunities for improvement at some properties.

The survey was conducted by a working committee established last month by the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) to address the root causes of issues that recently led to unrest in the tourism sector.

The unrest included instances of hotel staff across the island withdrawing their services reportedly due to dissatisfaction with wages and working conditions.

In a statement, the JHTA noted that the survey found Jamaica’s hotel sector generally provides competitive combined remuneration, including basic salary and gratuity. However, it was observed that gratuity payments vary across properties due to differences in room counts, rates, and occupancy percentages.

The JHTA emphasized the importance of its members ensuring a clear understanding among staff of how gratuity schemes are structured and how payments for time off and overtime are calculated.

Acknowledging workers’ calls for improved communication, the association pledged to create space for open discussions to address disagreements and find solutions that work for all parties.

The JHTA also stated that discussions with member properties affected by industrial relations issues have been productive, and corrective measures are being implemented where necessary.

In the meantime, the association urged workers to utilize established processes for resolving workplace concerns. These include engaging human resources departments, consulting the Ministry of Labour, and if necessary, referring matters to the Industrial Dispute Tribunal before resorting to strikes.

The JHTA reiterated its commitment to the resilience and growth of Jamaica’s hotel industry for the benefit of all Jamaicans.