Jamaica hoteliers face financial squeeze over delayed Hurricane Melissa insurance payouts

The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) is warning that hoteliers are facing a financial crisis due to delayed insurance payouts following Hurricane Melissa. Despite a commitment from several industry bodies—including the Financial Services Commission and the Insurance Association of Jamaica—to settle most claims by the end of September, the tourism sector is expected to miss this target.

JHTA President O’Brian Heron reported that a survey of members revealed only 39 per cent of tourism claimants have received full settlement and payment, leaving 61 per cent still waiting in the claims process. The delays are causing a working capital squeeze, forcing many operators to fund repairs out of pocket. Currently, 28 per cent of hotels have yet to reopen as they struggle with unresolved claims and the high costs of rebuilding.