Government committed to improving hotel industry

Madam Hawa Yakubu, Minister of Tourism, on Wednesday reiterated government's commitment to co-operate with investors in the hotel and hospitality industry to improve their businesses.

"Government appreciates anybody who invests in the industry and will do everything possible to assist and promote their activities."

She said this when a delegation from the management of Golden Beaches International paid a courtesy call on her in her office.

Golden Beaches International is made up of La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, Elmina Resort and Busua Beach Resort.

Madam Yakubu said the tourism and hospitality industry is the bedrock of the country and government is putting up measures to improve the infrastructure of the sector.

She appealed to the delegation to support the staff of the Hotels and Catering Training Institute (HOTCATT) to build up capacity of the institutes.

The Minister said HOTCATT being the only institute in the country needs the necessary push from the private sector, especially those in the hotel business, to achieve its goals.

Mr Klaus Riebensahm, Chief Executive Officer, La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, said security and safety on the roads and the high prices of air tickets are the major concerns of the industry.

"If these problems are solved, it would help boost the industry and thereby increase revenue for the country."

He said plans are underway to refurbish the Elmina Resort Beach into a training school for caterers and called for government's support for the group.