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BiggerMinister David Collado enhances Tourism safety and transparency
Santo Domingo.- Tourism Minister David Collado is holding meetings with regulatory agencies to enhance the safety and transparency of tourism in the Dominican Republic. He emphasized the importance of solutions that ensure a safe and healthy recreational environment. Collado also met with the CEIZTUR team to improve internal collaboration on key projects, and he reiterated his commitment to transparency in the tourism sector during discussions with Vice Ministers and Project Directors.
Additionally, Collado announced a meeting with stakeholders involved in IDB-funded projects, such as the restoration of Ciudad Colonial, which has gained international recognition. These strategic meetings aim to strengthen the Dominican Republic’s position as a premier tourist destination. In related news, Punta Cana will host the UNWTO summit from October 3 to 5, focusing on promoting tourism between Africa and the Americas.
There should be safety everywhere. Is the focus on tourism safety is to protect the country’s cash cow? You can bet it is!
The amount of tax revenue tourism contributes to the RD is more than enough to fund public safety all around.
The Minister of Tourism seems to be primarily focused on increasing the number of visitors, while neglecting crucial safety measures. For instance, on tours to Saona Island or during buggy tours, safety protocols are often ignored. Seat belts used are substandard, resembling bed straps with plastic buckles, and lack proper security latches. Additionally, there are instances of 110V breakers being used in 12V systems, and emergency stop buttons placed inconveniently at the back of vehicles, making it impossible for drivers to shut off the engine in an emergency. On Saona Island, there are no clear indications of the maximum number of people allowed on vessels, and there are often insufficient life jackets available. This lack of enforcement of safety regulations puts tourists at risk.