STATEMENT BY MINISTER FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND WORKS

HONOURABLE KYE M. RYMER

AT THE NINTH SITTING OF THE FIRST SESSION

OF THE FIFTH HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS

ON DEVELOPING A BUSINESS CASE FOR

THE TERRANCE B. LETTSOME INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

TUESDAY 5^th MARCH 2024

Madame Speaker, I am pleased to provide an update on the progress of developing the Business Case for the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport. In line with the recommended Green Book five-case model, utilised by His Majesty’s Treasury, KPMG has been chosen as the successful bidder for this vital project, with a tendered cost of $264,035.00.

Upon formalizing the contract between the BVI Airports Authority and KPMG, a steering committee was promptly established. This committee comprises representatives from various sectors within the Virgin Islands, including the BVI Tourist Board, The Attorney General’s Chambers, Town Planning, the private sector, other ministries within the central government, and professionals from the BVI Airports Authority.

This diverse committee ensures a thorough and inclusive approach to developing the Strategic Outline Case (SOC), which serves as the crucial initial phase in the five-case model.  The SOC will lay the groundwork for the subsequent Outline Business Case.

Recently the KPMG team visited the Virgin Islands and engaged with the steering committee to gather crucial insights into the specific requirements for airport development in the region.  They also comprehensively assessed the existing airport facilities during a familiarisation tour.

The steering committee is on track to finalise the Strategic Outline Case in the coming weeks. This phase will thoroughly explore various development options and the selection of a preferred alternative to establish a robust and sustainable outline business case for the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport.

To ensure inclusivity and transparency, the KPMG team will conduct a series of public consultations to collect feedback, insights, and concerns from stakeholders. These consultations will not only inform the public about the airport development plans, but also provide them with an opportunity to voice their opinions and have them considered in the business case formulation process.

Furthermore there are plans to enhance and align the Airport's Master Plan with all relevant documents to ensure coherence and efficiency in project execution.

Madame Speaker, in conclusion, the collaborative efforts between KPMG, the steering committee, and stakeholders aim to pave the way for a well-informed and community-supported airport development strategy that meets the unique needs of our Beautiful Virgin Islands.

Madame Speaker, I thank you.