Local News
New West End Ferry Terminal to Accommodate 200,000 Passengers Annually
Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye Rymer, recently announced that the new West End Ferry Terminal in the Virgin Islands will be designed to accommodate up to 200 passengers per hour, or 200,000 passengers per year.
The completion of this terminal will more than double the size of the previous facility, with the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) overseeing its design and construction.
During his statement at the House of Assembly, Minister Rymer emphasized the collaborative effort between key stakeholders involved in the project. These stakeholders include the BVI Ports Authority, the Immigration Department, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, His Majesty’s Customs, the BVI Tourist Board, ferry operators, and taxi drivers.
Minister Rymer expressed his satisfaction with the progress of the project, highlighting key milestones achieved so far. He commended the success of three local firms in the pre-qualification procurement process, emphasizing their ability to compete in bidding processes. These firms, one standalone applicant and two joint-venture firms, will be invited to participate in the full tender process.
However, Minister Rymer noted that there are still several processes that need to be completed before the construction phase can commence. The expected completion date for the project is mid-2026.
The new West End Ferry Terminal will serve various types of water transportation, including private and charter yachts, private boats, water taxis, and ferry passengers traveling between the neighboring US Virgin Islands and Jost Van Dyke and Tortola. Minister Rymer emphasized that while the airport and the ferry terminal cater to different markets, both aim to improve transportation and access to the islands, enhance the tourism product, and contribute to the overall socioeconomic advancement of the Virgin Islands.
Minister Rymer extended his gratitude to the RDA for their dedication to excellence in managing this major project and for their collaboration with the Ministry to advance the works.
Education
Friendly Competition Sparks Unity Between Francis Lettsome and Willard Wheatley Primary Schools
As the new school year began, Francis Lettsome Primary School and Willard Wheatley Primary School were officially zoned together, marking the start of what promises to be a powerful collaboration between the two institutions. In celebration of Teacher’s Week, both schools came together for a friendly bowling match between the Wolves and the Wildcats.
The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as students, staff, and teachers embraced their competitive spirits. Beyond the fun, the event symbolised the beginning of a new chapter, with both schools set on working together to foster academic and social improvement.
“This is just the beginning,” said one teacher. “We’re excited about the opportunities ahead as we collaborate to support the success of our pupils.”
With more joint activities planned, the newly dubbed East Coast “Wolfcats” are poised to make great strides in building a united and dynamic learning environment. Stay tuned for further developments as these schools continue to strengthen their partnership.
International
UN Resident Coordinator Simon Springette Visits Virgin Islands to Strengthen Development Efforts
Business
Flow BVI Appoints Maria De Grads as First Female General Manager
Flow British Virgin Islands has welcomed Maria De Grads as its new General Manager, the first woman to hold this position in the company’s 58-year history, effective October 1. The announcement was made by C&W Communications, the parent company of Flow, Flow Business, C&W Business, and BTC, which operates throughout the Caribbean.
Maria De Grads, a telecommunications veteran from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, brings over 21 years of experience in the industry. Her appointment has been hailed as a pivotal moment for Flow BVI. Susana O’Sullivan, Vice President for the North Caribbean at C&W Communications, expressed confidence in De Grads’ leadership: “Her extensive experience, vision, and commitment to empowering teams will be instrumental in driving Flow BVI forward as we continue to innovate and deepen our connection to the BVI community.”
De Grads has held a variety of roles within C&W Communications since joining Flow St. Vincent and the Grenadines in 2004. Her previous positions include Commercial Lead for the Southern Caribbean markets, which covered St. Lucia, Dominica, Grenada, and Barbados. She has also served as Commercial Manager and Product Executive, gaining expertise in growth strategy, customer care, and human resource management. In her most recent role as Senior Manager for Commercial Operations in the South Caribbean, she was responsible for spearheading plans that drove customer acquisition and revenue growth.
“I am deeply honored to become the General Manager of Flow BVI, and being the first woman to step into this role makes it even more meaningful,” said De Grads. “I look forward to leading our talented team as we continue to deliver innovative services, enhance customer experiences, and contribute to the development of the BVI. Together, we’ll build on Flow’s strong legacy and ensure we remain at the forefront of connectivity in the Territory.”
De Grads holds an associate degree in business management from the University of the West Indies and an MBA in Marketing and Sales Management from the University of Edinburgh.
This new leadership is expected to further strengthen Flow BVI’s position as a leading provider of telecommunication services in the British Virgin Islands, offering cutting-edge solutions to both consumers and businesses.
About C&W Communications:
C&W Communications, part of Liberty Latin America, is a comprehensive communications and entertainment provider serving over 20 markets in the Caribbean. It offers video, broadband, mobile, and telephony services, along with IT solutions for business and government clients through its business division.
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