THE National Assembly yesterday approved $865.7 million for the Ministry of Tourism.This covers a $685.8M allocation to the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce for the period January 1 to August 31, 2015, and an allocation of $180M for the new Ministry of Tourism for the remainder of 2015.
During deliberation on the estimates, Minister of Tourism Cathy Hughes was asked to provide clarification on an aggregated $30M increase in subsidies in 2015 as against 2014, for the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA).
She explained that this is to implement a marketing plan and to fund various vehicles to promote destination Guyana. In this regard, the minister said the monies will fund measures such as GTA representatives’ attendance at trade shows, and the promotion of Destination Guyana, via outlets such as magazines, and radio and television stations across the world.
Clarification was also sought on an allocation of $3.95 million for the maintenance of buildings. Minister Hughes explained that the work is to be done at Colgrain House, which is the location of the new ministry. She further clarified that the interventions to the building include electrical works and changing the different door locks.
Of the $179.9 million approved for the new Ministry of Tourism, the sum of $68 million has been budgeted for the development of policies, for a sustainable national tourism industry, and $74.1 for tourism development, including measures aimed at creating a destination market plan, to position Guyana as a globally recognised tourism destination.
A sum of $37.8 million covers consumer-protection services, including among others, measures aimed at increasing awareness of consumers’ rights, and participation in World Consumer Day activities. (GINA)