Operation Grow launched in Connecticut

Simpson Miller

MINISTER OF Tourism and Sport, Portia Simpson Miller, received support from over 300 travel and tour operators along with presidents of West Indian organisations, as she launched the 'Operation Grow' programme in Connecticut, United States on Monday.

Operation Grow, a programme involving advertising and promotions both in Jamaica and overseas, was created to address the impact of the recent unrest in western Kingston.

Following a launch in Atlanta, the Minister and her team journeyed to the Hartford area of Connecticut, which is believed to contribute significantly to the business coming out of the tri-state area.

The crowd applauded with excitement when Minister Simpson Miller commended the travel agents, who along with the tour operators were responsible for over 80 per cent of the business coming into Jamaica.

A senior travel agent from Sun-burst Holidays said that "it was a good feeling to hear a Minister of Government who is so passionate about her work, she really touched me."

The Jamaica Tourist Board has designated September as Travel Agents Month, which received overwhelming support from travel agents at the function. The travel agents will be visiting hotels and attractions to experience the culture and cuisine of the island.

A seven-minute video highlighting the seven resort towns of Jamaica was shown at the launch of Operation Grow. Council Woman, Veronica Wilson, who made a special presentation to the Minister, said that "Jamaica is the place to be if you want to relieve stress."

Minister Simpson Miller visited the Westbury area in Upstate New York on Tuesday and met with members of the industry in Tarrytown yesterday for the launch of "Operation Grow" in those areas.

The Minister and her party are on a one-week tour of the tri-state area and are scheduled to return to the island on Saturday.

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