Gooding-Edghill issued this denial yesterday in the Senate while making his presentation on a resolution which sought to vest Crown lands at St Lawrence, Christ Church, in Hotel & Resorts Ltd.

He told members of the Senate that owners of condominiums were putting them in a rental pool and registering them with the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA).

Gooding-Edghill pointed out that once the rooms were registered with the BHTA there would be an increase in the number of rooms available to visitors.

He denied that Government was engaging in any attempt to reduce the level of employment within the sector.

The Government senator argued there was nothing wrong with Hotels & Resorts Ltd finding an equity partner to construct condominiums at St Lawrence Gap.

Gooding-Edghill also defended Government investing in the tourism sector.

He also pointed out that with Government adopting an investment role in the tourism sector, the country had witnessed a significant expansion in the industry.

As a result of Government's leadership role, said Gooding-Edghill, private companies such as Goddard Enterprises Ltd had shown confidence to partner with Almond Beach Resorts in an investment at the Casuarina Beach Club, Christ Church .

The Government senator further noted that with the reconstruction of the Hilton Hotel, more farmers and taximen were benefiting. (NC)