PM Welcomes Reopening of Rex Hotels

October 5, 2001 - Prime Minister Dr Kenny D. Anthony says "it's welcome news" that the two Rex Resorts hotels temporarily closed down three months ago will be reopening in December.

In a press release today, the Managing Agents of the local resort chain, MRI Limited, said the all-inclusive Papillon Hotel will reopen on December 1 and the five star Royal St. Lucian - which is currently undergoing refurbishment of its 96 luxury suites - will reopen on December 15, in readiness for the coming winter tourist season.

Dr Anthony says he is "particularly pleased that the workers displaced by the temporary closure will now be able to earn an income" and he hopes

The Prime Minister applauds the decision, "particularly in light of what’s taking place in the global marketplace at this time and its current and Impending effects on our tourism industry and the economy."

The re-opening of the two hotels, he adds, "will reaffirm the Continuing confidence of investors in our tourism sector, already evidenced by recent new hotel."

Regarding the reopening of the two Rex hotels! the Prime Minister says: "The Government of St. Lucia understands that some restructuring of the hotel will be necessary and will play its part in assisting the operators of the hotel to place it on a path to ensure its continuing viability."        

During the period of closure, the Papillon St. Lucia undertook a restructuring of its operational procedures intended to improve management and staff efficiency, ensure product quality and assist in reducing operating costs to enhance the viability of the hotel.

The Royal St. Lucian will by the date of reopening have completed major refurbishment of all 96 suites, creation of its new fine dining restaurant the "Chici" and its repositioning on the international marketplace as St. Lucia's most luxurious and premiere hotel.          

The hotel's Managing Agents, MR' Limited, say they will be inviting the workers in mid-October to facilitate manpower planning and to discuss recommencement dates.

MR' has also reiterated its confidence in the local tourism sector, saying that in the wake of the September 11, they needed to offer "an early demonstration of confidence."

The announcement of the reopening dates, says Dr Anthony, "will support St- Lucia's renewed marketing efforts and encourage tour operators, and visitors, to recognize the more secure and peaceful environment which St. Lucia and the Eastern Caribbean can provide in these troubled times."

MM announced in its release that while the sustainability of the tourism business in St. Lucia will invariably depend on world events, "we believe that the proactive approach taken by the government and the various tourism organizations to stimulate tourism business at this time, will provide positive results in the coming months."

Meanwhile, the Directors and Management of Rex Resorts say they are "appreciative of the time and efforts of both the Government of St. Lucia and the National Workers Union have given to consultation and support" of the hotels' to rationalize their operations into a more viable product."

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