It is with sadness that the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) acknowledges the passing of Eric Anthony Abrahams, Jamaica’s third Director of Tourism and the first Minister of Tourism. We also recognize with heartfelt respect, the extraordinary contributions he made while he served this organization in the early 1970s, and by extension to the wellbeing of our country.
 
Since taking up this appointment as Chairman of the Board and Director of Tourism, I have had numerous reasons to reflect on Tony Abrahams’ achievements in helping to carve out Jamaica’s position on the world map as a leading tourist destination. His ability to think outside the box coupled with his innovative, adventurous spirit, and his “stick-to-itiveness” made him an exemplary leader; and his accomplishments changed the course of Jamaica’s tourism.
 
Among Tony’s successes was the creation of a department of Planning, Research and Statistics, equipping the JTB for the first time with its own facility for industry research relevant to the undertaking of marketing activities. He was responsible for the introduction of a new division within the Board to monitor the standard and quality of the product, a precursor to today’s Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo); and he established a subsidiary company to address the development of visitor attractions.
 
Personally, I am proud to call Tony Abrahams a friend and mentor. His boundless energy, his quirky sense of humour and his uncanny eye for creative detail have been good signals for me throughout my career.
 
As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate his life. As Director of Tourism, Eric Anthony Abrahams was a pioneer, a marketing revolutionary, and a brilliant leader. On behalf of the JTB, I extend deepest sympathy to his family and colleagues he has left behind. We will always feel gratitude for a lifetime so dedicated to paving the way for Jamaica’s future.