I PAUSE TO SAY.....

Good day and God’s blessings to all of you. It is indeed wet on the outside and I do trust that you are exhausting all efforts to remain dry, for you believe in the mantra: Get Ready, Stay Ready! 

We are continuing to keep a close watch on Karen, which - after having weakened in the early part of last night - has upgraded back to Tropical Storm strength. We are closely monitoring the updates from the DDM as the weather system moves closer to the Territory, until it departs our vicinity, as I encourage you to also do.

Public and Private Schools are closed so our children are home safe. Public offices are closed so public officers are home safe. I trust that the private sector is doing its part to ensure the safety of its employees. As you know, I am a firm believer that the most important asset to a business is its people. 

I wish to thank the hardworking team at the DDM, my GIS team who continue to provide public relations support to DDM during these times, and all the essential and critical service workers across the Territory who risk their lives for the safety of all of us living in these beautiful Virgin Islands. 

I also wish to thank all the members of the Government and the Members of Her Majesty’s Opposition for ensuring that districts are prepared for times such as these. We will all continue to work to make communities and our people resilient. 

I know that there are several flooding hotspots throughout the Territory and I thank the Minister of Works Honourable Kye Rymer and his hard working staff, especially the Public Works Department at this time for doing its due diligence to minimise impact as much as possible. 

I appreciate all of you and the people of the Territory value your efforts. I continue to hold fast to the reality that the mercy of God surpasses everything on earth. I know that He will continue to bless and protect the people of the Virgin Islands.

Get ready; stay ready, and keep safe!

Thank you.