BHTA issues warning on rising violence

The tourism industry has issued its starkest warning yet over the island’s worsening gun violence, following the deadly shooting in an area near Thunder Bay Beach Bar, St James on Sunday.

Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) Chairman Javon Griffith strongly condemned the actions of those involved in the slayings of three men in St James, which brought the murder toll to 23.

Griffith said: “Barbados cannot afford to normalise gun violence. We cannot allow fear, lawlessness and indiscipline to gain further ground in our communities. Nor can we sit idly by while the image and integrity of our island are placed under increasing threat.”

The recent trend should alarm all Barbadians and visitors concerned about national safety and reputation, he added. 

“What is perhaps most alarming is that these violent episodes are now beginning to feel like a regular weekend occurrence in Barbados. That is a reality which should concern every Barbadian, every visitor, and every stakeholder with an interest in the safety, stability, and reputation of this country.”

The BHTA chairman underscored Barbados’ long-standing reputation in global tourism and its importance to the economy.

“Barbados has long distinguished itself as a peaceful, welcoming and civilised destination. Our tourism industry and indeed our wider national economy, depends heavily on that reputation. Visitors choose Barbados not only for its beauty, hospitality and culture, but also because they believe they are travelling to a destination that is safe, orderly and well-managed.”

Griffith warned that if gun violence continued unchecked, it could undermine confidence in Barbados as a destination.

“If this growing pattern of gun violence is not confronted expeditiously, decisively and effectively, it has the potential to erode confidence in our destination and place the future strength of our tourism industry at serious risk.”

Griffith expressed condolences to the families of the victims and the communities affected by the incidents, while also acknowledging the work of the police and calling a broader national response:

“It is evident that a broader, more urgent and more coordinated national response is now required. This is not solely a policing matter. It is a societal issue that calls for leadership, enforcement, intervention, community engagement and sustained action at every level. Barbados cannot afford to normalise gun violence. We cannot allow fear, lawlessness and indiscipline to gain further ground in our communities.”

The hotel chief called for immediate and decisive action from the authorities and interest groups: “The time for decisive action is now. We urge the relevant authorities and all national stakeholders to treat this matter with the urgency it demands. The safety of our people must come first, and the protection of Barbados’ reputation as a safe and desirable destination must remain a national priority.”

(LG)