The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) says it remains confident that the sector will be ready to welcome winter holidaymakers by December 15, the start of the island’s peak tourism season.

This, as hotels across the island make steady progress toward full recovery.

On Wednesday, JHTA President Christopher Jarrett told IRIE FM News that Hurricane Melissa caused serious damage to at least 12 hotels, with closures at several properties to facilitate renovation.

In an update this morning, Mr. Jarrett noted that the sector remains positive that it will rebound quickly, especially since several Jamaicans depend on its continuity to earn an income.

In the meantime, Mr. Jarrett said hoteliers are doing all they can to resume operations.