WESTERN BUREAU:

PRIME MINISTER Bruce Golding has emphasised the positive impact Spanish investors have made on the Jamaican economy, noting that the European group's investments will be of tremendous help to the country in riding this period of global economic depression.

In addressing 30 international shareholders of local development company Seawind Key Investments Limited (SKIL) last Thursday, the prime minister urged the society to pause and contemplate what Jamaica's current situation would have been like if the Spanish entrepreneurs had not been aggressively transporting tourists to the island.

New hotel project

The prime minister's comments were made on a busy construction site for the US$180 million 700-room hotel project, 'Secrets St James' and 'Secrets Wild Orchid' at Montego Freeport in Montego Bay.

The project is receiving funding of US$100 million from Spanish investors and US$80 million from Jamaica's National Commercial Bank and will provide employment for more than 1,000 Jamaicans at a time when other hotel projects, including Trelawny's multibillion-dollar Harmony Cove and the 2,000-room Excellence Group rest in limbo.

Extends invitation

"We see this project as contribution to Jamaica's development and want to urge more Spanish investors to come to Jamaica," Golding said in extending an open invitation to more business interests, stating that a change of Government never meant an alteration to commitments made by his predecessors. "Not only is Jamaica open for business, but we are ready for business," declared the prime minister.

Readiness for business includes other sectors, such as agriculture, an untraditional market for the Spanish who have, so far, concentrated on the tourism sector.

Alex Zozaya, president of AM Resorts, the future operator of the 'Secrets' resorts being built, indicated his intention to bring a new dimension of luxury to the Jamaican tourism offering, adding that although the group was entering into a difficult time, he was very optimistic because of Destination Jamaica's reputation and aggressiveness in the marketplace.

"This is a fresh, new product in line with the values of Jamaica," said Zozaya.

The pair of Secrets hotels will carry the AM Resorts brand's signature characteristics, which include a refined level of luxury with attention to every detail; guest suites with Jacuzzi and private terraces; gourmet, à la carte international dining at a choice of several restaurants; spa; fitness centre; and 24-hour room service.

janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com