Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Commerce, Esther Thomas served as the featured speaker at the 5th Annual General Meeting of the Dominica Community Tourism Association(DCTA).
In her remarks, Thomas said that while the outlook for tourism looks grim in the face of COVID-19, the DCTA must not throw their hands up hopelessly.
“The picture indeed does look gloomy but we have been taught and trained to see the opportunity in every circumstance and challenge and translate it into a blessing for success; COVID-19, this global pandemic is no different.”
She said that this period calls for a “transformation of mind and thinking to earnestly integrate recovery plans for Tourism”. It will also require incorporating responsible citizens to get involved in health and wellness activities to boost community Tourism.
She emphasized that as a nation we must not lose what we have been known for, hospitality and excellent customer service, even if we are required to social distance.
Thomas praised the Members of the DCTA who she says have been “great advocates for Community Tourism ensuring that it remains on the front burner of the tourism policy makers and Government to the point that you have a Community Tourism Liaison Officer funded by the state”. “That’s good advocacy”, she said.
The 5th AGM of the DCTA was held under the theme, ‘Strengthening Community Tourism through this Global Pandemic’.
