MESSAGE BY HONOURABLE DR. KARL DAWSON

JUNIOR MINISTER OF THE GOVERNMENT OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS

IN THE AREA OF AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES

ON THE OCCASION OF

THE TERRITORIAL ADDRESS FOLLOWING THE FIRST YEAR IN OFFICE

THURSDAY, MAY 16, 2024

I am privileged to have been elected by the people of the First District and to serve in the Fifth House of Assembly.

We came into office in a challenging time but are committed to building a brighter future for the Virgin Islands.  I remain committed to working with members of government and indeed with all members of the House to building that future

The first year was a learning one, and I remain steadfast in my view that our entire system of Government is in need of repair. Though the highest accountability lies with elected members, the performance of other actors in government are critical to effective government as well the relationship between all arms of Government including the King’s representative who leads the Civil Service.

Effective and trustworthy government systems are key to a successful transition to greater levels of autonomy and indeed eventually to independence should the people desire it.

In this administration I have been charged with assisting the Premier in the areas of Agriculture and Fisheries

Challenges abound but we progress with addressing issues of water supply at Paraquita Bay, assigning more plots for farming, training and exposure for farmers and fishers, and building networkers among practitioners

The initiative of farmers also is trending towards impacting another critical area – tourism.

Many farmers are now developing and opening their properties for tours by residents and visitors.

This is very important as continued success in tourism depends in large part on a far more diversified tourist experience which must include a breadth of activities that creates satisfaction and more economic opportunities for Virgin Islanders.

I thank all those who have feedback on our performance whether publicly on one-on-one and I encourage you to continue to do so as we build the land which we love.