Shadow Minister Dwayne Robinson On BTA
“I’m calling on the Minister of Tourism to provide an update on this Government’s plan to assist the BTA with its staffing issues, the overarching vision for the Tourism industry, and the future of the Bermuda Tourism Authority as an entity,” said Shadow Tourism Minister Dwayne Robinson.
Mr. Robinson, who was recently elected as an MP in the election, said, “The departure of Wayne Caines is troubling so soon after receiving the results of a third-party conducted culture review of the Bermuda Tourism Authority. Is the decision to keep the review internal final, or could the Minister provide a summary to the people of Bermuda? The OBA believes the Chairman of the Bermuda Tourism should never be an elected or appointed politician. The departure of Wayne Caines gives the Minister a chance to bring forth the legislation to enshrined this.
“The Minister pledged to have a meeting with the BTA and then address the public back in January. I understand that a General Election was taking place but with something as crucial as our tourism product, the public deserve a sense of direction. Bermuda needs to increase our meeting and conference capacity, which is why the OBA platform calls for developing conference facilities and a multi-purpose entertainment venue.
“Increasing our bed capacity is paramount, so hopefully we receive an update on Fairmont Southampton, and some insight into the Ministers strategy for attracting Hoteliers to our shores. These are some ways the Government can support the BTA’s efforts and show commitment to the Tourism industry.
“I’m calling on the Minister of Tourism to provide an update on this Government’s plan to assist the BTA with its staffing issues, the overarching vision for the Tourism industry, and the future of the Bermuda Tourism Authority as an entity.
“Can the Minister confirm whether the meeting with the BTA he spoke of in January has happened? If not, when will it happen? When can the public expect an address on tourism in this new parliament. As this minister was in his post before and during the election, there should not be a lengthy adjustment period after the election.”
Plan is to hire a F&F that know nothing about tourism and marketing who will theen hire a consultant who will likely be a friend as well to tell them what they should be thinking.
Yes, Dwayne. Right out the gate. Please don’t let up like some in the OBA did leading up to this election.
When employees leave like rats (just an analogy, not calling them rats) on a sinking ship, it’s time to fire the captain and officers, and look into getting a new ship.