Mr. Speaker, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Sports, Agriculture and Fisheries, is at the threshold of reopening a number of schools that were under construction since the 2017 hurricanes.

Just about seven weeks ago, the House of Assembly passed the Immigration and Passports (Amendment) Act 2019, clearing the way for the commencement of the first phase of government’s programme to reform the laws, policies and systems that regulate immigration and labour in the Virgin Islands.

His Excellency the Governor Augustus Jaspert chaired the Meeting held on 10th July, 2019, which was held at the Premier’s Conference Room, Central Administration Building.

Mr. Speaker, although I have on two occasions reported on the effects of the fire that has made the incinerator at Pockwood Pond inoperable I nevertheless find it necessary to report on interim measures taken while the control panel is being assembled and the electrical works are being conducted.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to report to this Honourable House on the progress of my ministerial portfolio since I took office.

His Excellency the Governor Augustus Jaspert chaired the Meeting held on 2nd July, 2019, which was held at the Premier’s Conference Room, Central Administration Building.

Greetings to the people of the Virgin Islands.  As you may be aware, the situation in Cane Garden Bay Tortola that involves Power Boaters infringing on the swimming area and anchoring their vessels on the shoreline has been a problem to the beach goers and the community. This occurrence is dangerous and is also a potentially fatal accident waiting to occur. The Government of the Virgin Islands has been working diligently to remedy this issue and I am proud to say that this problem will be no more by the beginning of August.

My fellow Virgin Islanders; this is a wonderful moment not only for the Government led by Premier Honourable Andrew Fahie, but for the people of the Virgin Islands who for years have pleaded for Consumer Protection legislation.

His Excellency the Governor Augustus Jaspert chaired the Meeting held on 19th June, 2019, which was held at the Premier’s Conference Room, Central Administration Building.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my understanding that we are here to celebrate our transition from being a presidency of the Leeward Islands Federation to a standalone colony, later changed to territory, of the United Kingdom.  I would like to broaden the context for the discussion today and how we understand “Territory Day.” It is my contention that this day should celebrate our long walk to freedom, from enslaved people to our present status, and we should use this opportunity to discuss our future.