Local News
Virgin Islands Passes Bills to Boost Shipping and Maritime Authority for Economic Growth
The Government of the Virgin Islands has taken significant steps to enhance the capacity of the Virgin Islands Shipping and Maritime Authority to compete internationally. Two important bills, namely the Virgin Islands Shipping and Maritime Authority Act and the Merchant Shipping (Amendment) Act 2022, were passed in the House of Assembly on September 12. These bills aim to empower the authority to strategically respond to market trends and intensify its focus on revenue-generating activities. It is anticipated that these measures will contribute to maintaining and expanding the Territory’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), ultimately leading to real income increases for residents.
Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, expressed the significance of these acts, stating, “Today we propose an additional improvement to our Register and Maritime Administration by establishing the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry as the Virgin Islands Shipping and Maritime Authority.” Premier Wheatley emphasized the need for the Virgin Islands to adapt and remain competitive as markets and commercial environments evolve.
The Virgin Islands Shipping Registry (VISR) is the authorized agency under the Merchant Shipping Act, and this amendment act will authorize the Authority to replace the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry. Additionally, the act grants the Authority the power to appoint the Director, Surveyors, and the Registrar of Ships.
Premier Wheatley highlighted that the establishment of the Authority aligns with the Government’s objectives of economic diversification and expanding the Territory’s revenue-generating capacities. The transition is expected to enhance the Territory’s company registration for the ownership and operation of shipping companies, as well as increase the overall marketability of the Virgin Islands as a maritime tourism destination.
Director of the VI Shipping Registry, Mr. John Samuel, explained that the establishment of an autonomous Board will bring the VISR in line with international standards and the Red Ensign Group of flags, which includes the Cayman Islands, Bermuda, and Isle of Man. This autonomous status will separate VISR from the Central Government administration, providing several advantages such as effective financial management, enhanced responsiveness, improved administrative functions, and fewer bureaucratic constraints for commercial transactions.
To further solidify its position as an effective and modern service provider, government officials are set to attend the Monaco Yacht Show this weekend. This prestigious broker event will offer the VI Shipping and Maritime Authority an opportunity to showcase its capabilities.
The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to effective revenue management and economic diversification through the implementation of robust economic policies and decision-making processes.
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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