MINISTER of Tourism (ag), Irfaan Ali has disclosed that when the Marriott Guyana is fully operational, some 780 jobs will be created. 

Speaking briefly on the benefits of the Marriott during his year-end review, Ali explained that “there has been a lot of talk going around about the Marriott hotel, its potential and what it will bring to our people.
“We recognise that the expansion of Guyana’s economy lies in tourism and with the increasing investments and expressions of interest for the coming year, there will be a great turn around in our tourism drive,” the Tourism Minister asserted.
He explained via a chart system that the hotel will have 197 rooms and will be of international standards. With these standards in place, there will be four allotted employees to a room which will in turn create jobs for 780 persons. “How can his be a bad investment for Guyana,” he asked.
In terms of tourism, he noted, this will be one of the driving forces to bring traffic into Guyana. It will create more opportunities for this sector, both direct and indirect. There will be a greater demand for tours in and around the country. Also, training in a variety of aspects will be needed to be able to remain relevant within the sector, the minister contended.
Briefly explaining the tagline of the hotel that is to come: “Experience the seamless combination of Georgetown’s historic architectural splendour and distinctive modern luxury at the hotel. Marvel at picturesque views of the Demerara River meeting the Atlantic Ocean and enjoy a charming welcome to nearby Georgetown’s central district with its various attractions. Plan meetings effortlessly, with over 8,600 square feet of flexible meeting space.”

At the beginning of 2014, a projected total of 500 persons were to be trained and were initially proposed, according to the budget submitted to the Ministry of Finance. However, additional numbers were included to the training schedule and a total of 800 was eventually proposed. Many companies had requested to be included in the training, because of the level awareness that was done by the tourism sector. At the end of 2014, a total of 606 persons had been classroom -trained in a variety of areas.

(Rebecca Ganesh-Ally )