Tourism Minister Felix Jimenez told reporters yesterday that the current oil crisis has caused airfare prices to increase between US$10.00 and US$15.00 due to fuel surcharges. Jimenez also said that the tragic situation in New Orleans could also have a negative effect on local tourism. As reported in Hoy, Jimenez said that there are very serious problems arising from the rise in oil prices on the world market and that ” most Dominicans still do not have a full understanding of the consequences.” The Tourism Minister pointed out that there is a growing airplane fuel shortage, and predicted that the cost of fuel used for aircraft was certain to increase. Jimenez was speaking at a ceremony at the Ministry of Tourism where the ministry signed an agreement with the Cristal company aimed at maintaining a higher level of hygiene at the nation’s hotels and restaurants.