Local News
Contract For Airport Development Project Awarded to KPMG (BVI) Ltd.
The Government of the Virgin Islands, in collaboration with the British Virgin Islands Airports Authority (BVIAA), has awarded the contract to undertake crucial works on the long-awaited airport development project, to KPMG (BVI) Ltd.
After an extensive tendering process involving eight reputable companies, KPMG (BVI) emerged as the preferred bidder. The company is set to commence development works, with a clear timeline aimed at completing the business case within the next three months. This critical phase aligns with the UK’s 5-case model, ensuring a comprehensive and strategic approach to airport development.
Minister of Communications and Works Honourable Kye Rymer emphasised the project’s importance and underscored the government’s commitment to effective financial management, transparency, and accountability. “I am well pleased to know that we have persisted and have finally arrived at the stage where we can engage the services of a qualified contractor to chart the way forward with the airport development,” stated Honourable Rymer.
Furthermore, Honourable Rymer stressed the significance of upholding policy principles, ensuring value for money considerations, and enhancing accountability in public sector operations throughout the process.
Chairman of the Board, Mr. Theodore Burke, echoed the minister’s sentiments, affirming the team’s dedication to a seamless and transparent process that aligns with the Government’s financial management protocols. “We are dedicated to ensuring that every step taken in this project reflects our responsibility to the public we serve,” Mr. Burke stated.
Meanwhile, Managing Director Mr. Kurt Menal highlighted the wealth of information already available to facilitate the process, emphasising the Authority’s readiness to support the project. “Our team at the Authority is armed with a wealth of information gleaned from various studies undertaken previously,” noted Mr. Menal.
Mr. Menal also praised the competence and dedication of the Authority’s team, highlighting their passion for aviation and commitment to the growth and prosperity of the British Virgin Islands.
The Crown Lands Management Bill, recently introduced by the Virgin Islands government, under the leadership of the Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, Premier and Minister of Finance, is set to transform the utilisation and safeguarding of land resources for the future.
“At the core of this bill lies a commitment to transparency and the interests of the community,” declared Premier Wheatley. “We have carefully crafted these regulations to reflect our historical context, current challenges, and aspirations for the future.”
The bill sets out strict criteria and processes for the disposal and leasing of Crown Lands, ensuring decisions are made transparently and in the best interest of the community. Key components of the legislation include sustainability, affordability, suitability for development, eligibility criteria and responsible management.
Furthermore, the bill mandates the establishment of a comprehensive Land Use Plan, a strategic tool to guide future land allocation and mitigate the adverse impacts of unsuitable development.
Dr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, echoed Premier Wheatley’s sentiments, urging residents to familiarise themselves with the bill’s contents.
“The Virgin Islands Crown Lands Management Bill is crucial in shaping our collective future,” remarked Dr. Smith-Berkeley. “It is imperative for every member of our community to engage with this legislation, as it holds the key to our development and prosperity.”
The bill, which governs the administration, management, development, and use of all Crown lands, has already garnered attention and anticipation among residents. To encourage public participation, the government has made the bill accessible on the official Government of the Virgin Islands website, bvi.gov.vg, inviting feedback and comments from citizens.
A stabbing incident that occurred on May 12 at His Majesty’s Prison, resulted in inmate Shakeel Ryan being transported to Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for medical treatment.
Meanwhile, another individual has been apprehended and is currently being questioned at the Road Town Police Station.
Ryan, who is incarcerated for conspiracy to murder, remained hospitalised at the time of publication.
Circumstances surrounding the incident are still unclear, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
The retaining wall at the Social Security-funded homes in Joe’s Hill Manor Estate sustained substantial damage after heavy rains inundated the territory on May 7 and 8, leaving significant damage at multiple sites across the area.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported thus far, but efforts are underway to assess the full extent of the damage and ensure the safety of all affected areas.
In addition to the damage at Joe’s Hill Manor Estate, the torrential rains caused widespread flooding on the streets, with businesses on Flemming Street bearing the brunt of the floodwaters. The situation was compounded by erosion, landslides, and flash flooding on Virgin Gorda, rendering access to North Sound via Valley impassable and posing hazardous conditions for residents.
As a result of the adverse weather conditions, several banks across the region, including Bank of Asia (BVI), CIBC Caribbean, First Bank Virgin Islands, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Popular, Republic Bank (BVI) and VP Bank (BVI), were forced to close their doors.
In a precautionary move to prioritise public safety, all public schools across the territory were closed. However, as of today, May 9, they have reopened, except for Elmore Stoutt High School, which will resume face-to-face sessions on Friday, May 10th, 2024.
Virgin Islands Set for Crown Land Management Overhaul with New Legislation
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