Santiago de Cuba was the scene of the III Conference of the National Union of Hotel and Tourism Workers (SNTHT), where members of the sector ratified their commitment to innovation to attract more clients and improve the quality of services.
During the event, Rafaela Matos, provincial leader of the union, highlighted the fundamental role of the sector in the fight against Covid-19, transforming facilities into field hospitals and isolation centers to support health personnel.
Matos also highlighted the importance of comprehensive training for union leaders in political, legal, union and economic areas. He stressed the need for sustained membership growth, with the goal of organizing and representing both state and non-state workers.
In terms of recognition, the sector received 125 distinctions, 10 Jesús Menéndez medals, five Labor Prowess flags, the 85th Anniversary seal of the Cuban Workers’ Central (CTC) and the declaration of 16 centers as National Vanguard, reflecting the effort and dedication from the workers.
Julio Enrique Morales, top representative of the SNTHT, emphasized the importance of integrating the circles of interest of the units in local schools to promote vocational guidance. In addition, Morales highlighted the need to include language preparation in vocational training sessions and critically review the proposed plans to adapt them to the reality of the territory.
Abel Luis Rodríguez, from the provincial secretariat, mentioned the importance of knowing the laws, resolutions and regulations that govern the rights and duties of workers. Likewise, he spoke about the measures implemented to confront crime and promote innovation and rationalization in the sector.
Antonio Rodríguez, Havanatur union leader, shared that good experiences arise from the union between the base and political factors, which has allowed increased income through new offers for local clientele.
Marieta Sánchez, owner of the La Fabada de Marieta restaurant, advocated linking with state productive forces to optimize services. Sánchez highlighted an agreement with the educational system that integrates recent graduates into the workforce, thus benefiting local development.
The conference concluded with the ratification of Rafaela Matos as general secretary of the union in the province, recognizing her leadership and the positive results obtained in the last five years. The meeting also included a call to promote nature and city tourism, preparing for the organic process of the 22nd Congress of the CTC in 2025.
