The initiative, Rymer said, is part of the government’s goal to generate 60 percent of the Territory’s energy from renewable sources. “You may recall the duty-free concession on renewable energy items introduced in 2021 and the strong public interest it generated,” Rymer said. “Building on that success, Cabinet has approved an expanded concession.”

Products covered under the measure include solar panels, solar water heaters, solar lighting, solar air conditioners, solar appliances, wind power technologies, electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, and LED light fixtures and bulbs.

Rymer noted that the concession builds on the Solar Technology Energy Programme (STEP), which was launched to encourage greater use of renewable sources. “The sun blesses us freely every day — an abundant gift of energy waiting to be harnessed,” Rymer said. “Together, let us transform this free, endless resource into the power that drives our homes, our businesses, and our future.”

The full statement is available on the government’s website at www.bvi.gov.vg and its official Facebook page at BVIGovernment.

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The roadworks project in Hodges Creek has hit a roadblock—not because of financial demands, but because of a lack of respect, according to landowner Clyde Chalwell.

Chalwell, the owner of the land where the government is carrying out major roadworks, says he was never consulted before the project began, and that is the real issue at hand.

“No one has come to me, my family members, or anyone to have a conversation about the infringement on our property,” Chalwell said. “We’ve been waiting and waiting for someone to come talk to us, and up to now, that has not happened.”

According to Chalwell, his recent move to erect boundary poles was not meant to halt the project, but simply to mark what is rightfully his.

“I haven’t stopped the road, I haven’t stopped the work. All I am doing is marking my boundaries, like any other property owner would do,” he explained. “You can’t just jump on someone’s property and do as you like without consultation.”

The disputed section of land has been in use as part of the roadway for years, but with the new rehabilitation project, Chalwell believes the government should have done the right thing and engaged him in discussion first.

“If this is a new construction, and they have a plan, then let’s have a conversation about it,” he said. “Why do I have to reach out to them? If I needed access to government land, I would have to go to them. They are the ones accessing my land, not the other way around.”

Public opinion has swirled with speculation that Chalwell is seeking money from the government in exchange for the land. He firmly rejects this claim.

“Money never crossed my mind, and it’s still not on my mind. The land is not for sale,” he stated. “It’s about doing the correct thing. This isn’t North Korea. We don’t live in a dictatorship. I have rights, just like everyone else.”

Chalwell emphasised that a simple discussion could resolve the matter immediately.

“All I want is a conversation. Let me know what you’re doing. Get my blessing to continue,” he said. “I’m not against any project. The government just has to be responsible and act as a government.”

A meeting between Chalwell and Minister for Communications and Works, Hon. Kye Rymer, took place today. Following the discussion, Chalwell agreed to remove the boundary poles, allowing the project to proceed.

“I never wanted to stop anything; I just wanted them to do the right thing and speak to me first,” Chalwell said after the meeting. “Now that we’ve had that conversation, we can move forward.”

Chalwell also criticised what he sees as a pattern of government actions that disregard the rights of local landowners.

“If I needed to use a government facility, I would have to ask. But when it comes to a BVIslander’s land, they do what they want,” he said. “You can’t put a telephone pole in front of someone’s house without permission, but they think they can just take our land without asking? That won’t happen.”

Following this interview with Jahphixtelevision (JTV) , Chalwell met with Premier Hon. Natalio Wheatley and Minister of Communications and Works, Hon. Kye Rymer. After the meeting, he informed JTV that he agreed to remove the boundary poles, allowing the project to move forward.

As the roadworks resume, Chalwell insists that his stance was never about obstructing development but ensuring that due process and respect are upheld.

“The government must be held accountable,” he said. “You don’t just take people’s property without asking. That’s not how it works.”

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In response to these concerns, Honourable Rymer held urgent discussions with the airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Trevor Sadler, and Chief Operations Officer, Mr. Craig Chapple. The talks focused on the need for immediate improvements to the airline’s service levels.

Airline officials attributed the recent disruptions to a combination of technical difficulties with their aircraft and ongoing staffing challenges. However, Honourable Rymer stressed the critical importance of reliable air transport for the Territory, particularly in maintaining vital regional connections and supporting the local economy.

“Dependable and efficient air transport services are essential for the well-being of our residents and visitors,” said Minister Rymer. “The Government of the Virgin Islands is committed to ensuring that these standards are met. We have urged Inter Caribbean Airways to accelerate their efforts to resolve these issues and restore the level of service that our community expects and deserves.”

In response, Inter Caribbean Airways assured the Minister that they are actively working to resolve the technical and crew-related issues that have led to the service disruptions. The airline acknowledged the importance of providing consistent and reliable service to the BVI and committed to making the necessary improvements.

The Ministry of Communications and Works will continue to closely monitor the situation and keep the public informed of any further developments. Meanwhile, the Government remains dedicated to exploring all possible options to ensure that the air travel needs of the BVI community are met with the highest standards of service.

Minister of Communications and Works, Honourable Kye Rymer

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Hon.  Rymer stated that the Ministry, in collaboration with the BVI Airports Authority, is committed to engaging the public as vital stakeholders in the airport expansion process.

“We have pledged to keep the public informed as they are essential stakeholders in the airport expansion,” said Honourable Rymer. “The values, opinions, and feedback from the public are crucial for developing a successful and collaborative project plan.”

Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, highlighted that the survey aims to gather valuable insights and perspectives from stakeholders, including the public. The information collected will significantly influence the strategic direction of the project.

The public is encouraged to participate in the survey by visiting: Survey Link.

The Ministry of Communications and Works oversees the development and maintenance of the Territory’s infrastructure, including roads, ports, and airports. It collaborates with various government agencies and authorities to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of public services.

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Acknowledging the pressing need for a community-based public transportation system, Minister Rymer outlined that preparations are already in motion through the Taxi and Livery Commission (TLC), with plans for implementation slated for the third quarter of 2024.

The initiative marks a significant step forward, particularly in the aftermath of the natural disasters that struck the region in 2017 and the subsequent closure of the National Bus Service contract, leaving a void in public transportation infrastructure.

Director of the Taxi and Livery Commission, Mr. Jevaughn Parsons, emphasised the importance of establishing a designated staging area for the seamless organisation and movement of individuals within the city.

The completion of the Road Town Market Square Bus Shelter represents the initial phase of this endeavour, providing a centralised location for individuals to access transportation services connecting them to their respective communities.

“As we roll out the Community Bus Service, the Market Square Bus Stand will serve as the hub for individuals seeking to connect with their communities,” stated Mr. Parsons. “Public Transport Operators, operating under the umbrella of the Community Bus Service conglomerate, will facilitate this vital link.”

The revitalisation of the Community Bus Service aligns with the Ministry of Communications and Works’ commitment to upholding international standards of public infrastructure development. By ensuring reliable and affordable public utilities, the ministry aims to enhance community life for both residents and visitors to the Virgin Islands.

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Hon. Kye Rymer

The Public Works Department (PWD) has installed solar radar school zone signs at the Willard Wheatley Primary and the Ivan Dawson Primary Schools.

Director of the PWD, Mr. Jeremy Hodge, emphasised the paramount importance of ensuring the safety of the Territory’s children. He highlighted that the installation of these signs marks the commencement of a pilot project, with plans for further installations at other schools across the Territory in the pipeline.

“These signs read the speed of oncoming vehicles, alerting motorists of how fast they are travelling,” stated Mr. Hodge, underlining the functionality of the newly implemented radar signs.

Honourable Kye M. Rymer, Minister for Communications and Works, echoed the government’s commitment to advancing road safety initiatives during a recent session of the House of Assembly. He announced plans to introduce solar-powered crosswalk signals as another component of the Territory’s ongoing efforts to promote greener, safer, and more pedestrian-friendly environments.

“The solar-powered crosswalks are signage that flashes to get the attention of oncoming traffic, thereby bringing awareness to drivers that a pedestrian is intending to cross the street,” explained Honourable Rymer, emphasising the importance of these innovative safety measures.

Photos of the electronic crosswalks at the Willard Wheatley and Ivan Dawson Schools.

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