Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie will present the Government’s annual Financial Statement, or Budget Address on Thursday, November 12 under the theme: INNOVATION: Building a stable, diverse, competitive economy with strong industries and partnerships for regional and international trade, by building and harnessing the creative capacity of our human capital.  

The Premier will present the Appropriation Bill or the Appropriation Act, 2021 during the Second Sitting of the Third Session of the Fourth House of Assembly. This Act contains the estimated financial requirements for expenditure on all the services of the Government for the current or succeeding financial year. 

Following the presentation, a motion for the second reading of the Bill will be proposed and the Premier, being the Minister of Finance will present the annual address. 

Honourable Fahie said, “The year 2020 has indeed been one of adjustments and realignment. We have been steadily moving forward despite the challenges. We will continue to move forward with our people and prepare this Territory for its transformation in 'The New Regular' of living and working with COVID-19.” 

The Premier added, "With this being our first budget speech since the onset of the pandemic, it is expected to be more than just about finances. It will be about continued stability, diversity, competitiveness, trade, and our people.” 

 Premier Fahie said that it is the Government’s intention in this upcoming financial year  to continue to ensure that its Legislative Agenda and policies are aligned with the proposed Budget so that the Territory can experience overall success.“

Following the Budget Address, the motion for the second reading of the Bill will be read and seconded. The sitting will then be adjourned to a date that is to be announced after the completion of the Standing Finance Committee process, ensuring a smooth process for the passing of the Territory’s 2021 budget.                                                            

The Sitting will begin at 10:00 a.m. and will be held at Save the Seed Energy Centre in Duff’s Bottom, Tortola. It will be broadcast LIVE on House of Assembly VI’s YouTube page; Government of the Virgin Islands’ Facebook page; ZBVI 780 AM; CBN Radio 90.9 FM, CBN-Television (online) and FLOW TV 101.