State Tourism Minister Delano Seiveright has dismissed claims that only tourism communities will profit from the $67.5 billion Western Parishes Water Supply and Resilience Improvement Programme, which was officially launched by Prime Minister Andrew Holness earlier this month.

“That’s absolutely untrue. We want to make it clear that this project is not just for tourism communities,” Seiveright stated.

“It will benefit communities all across western Jamaica. The people of Little London will benefit, the people of Savanna-la-Mar will benefit, the people living in and around Negril will benefit – and it extends even further afield,” he added.

Seiveright explained that the project will add approximately 35 million gallons of water to the national supply, representing an 18 per cent increase, and is designed to be resilient against the usual drought conditions affecting western Jamaica. He commended Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Minister Matthew Samuda, and the people of Westmoreland, along with government, private sector, and civil society advocates, for their efforts in making the project a reality.

Seiveright was delivering the keynote address at Thursday’s (July 17) official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly rehabilitated first phase of West End Road in Negril. The project included resurfacing and the installation of a modern drainage system along a previously deteriorated section.

As a vital artery connecting homes, businesses, and tourism attractions, this upgrade is expected to enhance road safety, improve accessibility, and support the continued growth of commerce and tourism in the area.

Seiveright explained that Negril contributes nearly a third of the US$4.3 billion Jamaica earned from tourism last year, emphasising that the country cannot function effectively without a thriving Negril and West End.

He noted that the area’s continued development, including boutique hotels, Airbnbs, and villas, will create jobs and opportunities for people in Negril, Westmoreland, and the wider Jamaica.