Hurricane Melissa caused serious damage to at least 12 hotels.

President of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) Christopher Jarrett adds that some of the properties have closed for renovation.

He points out that damage was caused to properties in Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth, St. James and Trelawny.

Mr. Jarrett is hoping for the quick restoration of utilities to assist the recovery efforts, so properties can reopen for the winter season which starts December 15.

The JHTA President adds that Hoteliers are also providing assistance to their workers

Tourism Minister Ed Bartlett has set a firm target for Jamaica’s tourism industry to be fully back in operation by December 15.

A high-level Hurricane Melissa recovery task force and a companion tourism resilience coordination committee have been activated to synchronize public and private sector action and achieve that goal.