Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett says the reduction in major crimes, including murders, could help attract more visitors to this year’s staging of Jamaica Carnival.

Murders are down by 36 % as of April 12, when compared to the corresponding period last year.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Mr. Bartlett said he believes visitors will feel safer.

He noted that last year, over 5,000 visitors came to Jamaica to attend carnival.