The National Association of Hotels (Asonahores) announced its support to Environment Minister Max Puig and his announcement that the ministry is drafting a new Sectorial Protected Areas Bill that would be sent to Congress. The ministry seeks an instrument that would preserve national parks while at the same time would stimulate public and private investment but from a sustainable tourism stand point. As reported in El Caribe, the organization seeks a legal framework that would stimulate the sustainable management of the natural and cultural resources, both essential for the tourism development of the country.
Asonahores had been vocal against the approval of the bill as passed in the understanding that it dismantled fragile protected areas. The hotel association understands that protected areas are the ideal complement for tourism and their demise will in the medium term affect the tourism industry. The organization considers that areas of less development, such as Barahona, Pedernales, Azua and Samana can benefit from the tourism industry without development affecting the protected areas in their surroundings. On the contrary, the organization warns that the mismanagement of these areas could bring serious consequences for the tourism industry in the country.