TEF Welcomes New Chairman

May 3, 2016 News Room

Just days after his appointment as Chairman of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), Godfrey Dyer (right) was greeted by TEF’s Executive Director, Clyde Harrison today (April 11, 2016), on his first visit to TEF’s New Kingston Offices since his appointment. Dyer, who previously served as TEF Chairman from 2007-2011, later met with staff members. He outlined the role he played as one of the architects of the organization and the approach he thinks the new board should take in further transforming resort areas across the island.

The proper management of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) is critical for the growth and development of the tourism sector. There are small properties which could use some of this money for much needed development of their properties and to further enhance their product offering.

We have no reason to criticize the way this fund is used but feel that many low budget and other visitors prefer to stay at small … cottages which give them a family togetherness type atmosphere. These type of properties have their niche market.

Families and individuals want to buy their groceries and cook for themselves … it probably reminds them of a home away from home.

Godfrey Dyer is no stranger to the Tourism Industry as he owned and operated the Wexton, in Montego Bay and served as TEF Chair before from 2007-2011 under a previous JLP Government … when Bruce Golding resigned and then Andrew Michael

Holness continued that term until he called an ill advised snap election in 2011 and lost to Portia Simpson Miller … the rest as they say is history.

Vana Taylor, president of the Jamaica Association of Villas & Apartments (JAVA) endorses the TEF programme. “We would like to see the continuation of major projects to improve all the resort areas … they (TEF) has been funding the Courtesy Corp programme and it is going well.” I did benefit from TEF assistance …

Newly appointed Chairman of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) Godfrey Dyer (fourth right) today (April 11, 2016) met with staff members at the agency’s New Kingston Offices, on his first visit to the TEF since his appointment. Pictured are (from left) Company Secretary, Terriann East-Oldham; Project Manager, Nalford Hyde; Executive Assistant, Ayana Duhaney; Special Projects Officer, Anique Simpson; Manager of Investments and Accounts, Diana Allen-Brown; Executive Director, Clyde Harrison; Director of Finance, Deborah Watson and Special Projects Officer, Tanisha Cunningham. Mr. Dyer, who previously served as Chairman from 2007-2011, used the meeting to introduce himself to new members of staff. He also outlined his intention to ramp up efforts to develop all resort areas.

I endorse the reappointment of Godfrey Dyer as chairman … he is knowledgeable about the hotel industry having been a hotelier (owner) himself also managed properties.” In this exclusive that you will only see in Vision.

Tragedy Struck

Dyer was badly burnt in a fire at a hotel he managed. He made a miraculous recovery. Vision wishes Dyer well.

Hopeton O’Connor-Dennie is Senior International Correspondent & photojournalist for Vision Newspaper Canada.