I am honoured to pay tribute this morning on behalf of the Government and the people of the Virgin Islands in remembering the life and legacy of Honourable H. Lavity Stoutt, the first Chief Minister and a visionary leader who left an undeniable mark in history book of this Territory. I am honoured to pay tribute this morning on behalf of the Government and the people of the Virgin Islands in remembering the life and legacy of Honourable H. Lavity Stoutt, the first Chief Minister and a visionary leader who left an undeniable mark in history book of this Territory. 

Excellencies, Heads of Government, Honourable Ministers, Heads of Delegations, Distinguished Delegates, ladies and gentleman, Good evening.

As Chairman of the Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTA), and on behalf of the Government and people of the British Virgin Islands, I extend a warm welcome to all participants and delegates to the British Virgin Islands.

Good morning: 

As country host, let me first welcome you to the British Virgin Islands (BVI).  We are delighted that you have joined us here on the island of Tortola and I encourage you during your breaks to explore our capital Road Town and other parts of the island. Representatives of my Government are available should you require any assistance.

Ladies and gentleman,

On the occasion of three very important European Union (EU) related meetings which will take place here in the BVI next week.

Madam Speaker, members of the public would have noticed a flurry of activity taking place at the cruise ship dock area on Wickham’s Cay in Road Town, since the middle of last year, 2014.

Madam Speaker, barring any unforeseen delays, projects under the National Sewerage Programme - East End/Long Look and Road Town, Tortola - are expected to be completed by the end of this year 2015.

Madam Speaker, the Water and Sewerage Department aims to provide a consistent and reliable supply of potable water to consumers in the Virgin Islands.

Madam Speaker, permit me to present this update to this Honourable House on road improvement works, as this Government continues to improve the quality of the road network throughout the Territory.

Madame Speaker, I rise to bring clarity to the recently implemented Fee Schedule for services delivered by the BVI Health Services Authority, and to allay any fears regarding our people’s continued ability to access affordable healthcare here at home.

Madame Speaker, thank you again for the opportunity to make a brief statement to this Honourable House on the Scholarship Trust Fund. Government grants a certain number of scholarships every year Madame Speaker but recognizes that it is impossible to meet all the funding needs of every single person in the Territory, and hence the need for the Scholarship Loan Fund.