Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has announced the formation of a special task force to enhance safety at major entertainment events, following a shooting incident that left three people injured during a Carnival after-party.
The incident occurred at the Big Wall Revolution after-party tied to Carnival in Jamaica 2026, prompting renewed scrutiny of security arrangements at large-scale festivities.
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Speaking after the Jamaica Youth Tourism Summit at The University of the West Indies, Mona Western Jamaica Campus, Bartlett said the initiative will be led by the ministry’s Linkages Network, which oversees major national events.
“In everything, we must examine how we add value and how we make the Carnival experience safer and more secure,” Bartlett stated, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent a recurrence.
Task Force to Review Safety Measures
According to the minister, the task force will conduct a comprehensive review of safety and emergency response protocols across key tourism-driven events, including Carnival and the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Festival.
“This body will strengthen arrangements to ensure there is no repeat of the unfortunate incidents experienced this time,” he said.
Strong Carnival Performance Despite Incident
Despite the shooting, Bartlett described Carnival 2026 as a success, highlighting the event’s resilience in the aftermath of recent challenges, including Hurricane Melissa.
The season saw approximately 11,000 revellers and around 70 fêtes, the highest number recorded, along with strong spectator turnout.
“Carnival in Jamaica 2026 has sent a powerful message that Jamaica is resilient, vibrant, and pressing ahead with confidence,” Bartlett noted.
Economic Impact Remains Significant
While final figures are still being compiled, early estimates suggest the economic impact of Carnival 2026 is tracking close to 2025 levels, when the event generated approximately J$7.7 billion in direct expenditure and a broader economic impact of J$165.7 billion.
Bartlett underscored the importance of the festival to the national economy, noting that cultural events drive widespread benefits across multiple sectors.
Protecting “Brand Jamaica”
Looking ahead, the minister stressed that safeguarding the country’s reputation as a premier destination is critical.
“We must be deliberate about protecting the event and destination reputation of Brand Jamaica,” he said, adding that enhanced safety planning will be central to preparations for Carnival 2027.
The move signals a broader push by the government to balance growth in entertainment tourism with stronger security frameworks, ensuring that Jamaica’s flagship cultural events remain both vibrant and safe.
