By Marlene Freeman

Tourism Minister Ed Bartlett says the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) has an 18-point strategy for further growth of the sector.

He says tourism has grown by 100% over the last nine years in arrivals and earnings.

Noting that the interest of the workers is paramount, the Minister points to various benefits to Jamaican workers which will result from the Locals First initiative.

Meantime, Mr. Bartlett says relief is coming for ground transport operators who pay for parking at hotels.

He also reiterated his commitment to continue certifying those in the industry and remove tax from tips and gratuity.