Good day and God’s blessings to all.  As we continue in our fight against this global pandemic, which has crippled economies across the globe and shutdown schools from the east to the west, it is important we adopt a spirit of thanksgiving for how God has kept us safe.  Our health officials have worked hard to keep up safe, and for this we are grateful.  The cooperation of the public has been key in our fight against COVID-19, and I kindly ask that we do not get weary in well-doing. Stay safe by following the protocols of wearing our masks, hand washing frequently and practicing social distancing. 

It is  indeed my pleasure to warmly welcome you to today’s Development Partner Forum that has brought us together for dialogue and partnership under the theme, ‘Investing in Higher Education to Build More Diversified and Resilient Post-COVID Economies in the Caribbean.’ 

Greetings to everyone.  I am pleased to bring you another status report on the Territory’s COVID-19 situation and response. I begin with a summary of the case numbers and their distribution.

I would like to provide an update on plans for further UK support that will strengthen the integrity of our borders and improve the security of the people of the British Virgin Islands.

Mr. Speaker, it is my duty to update the people of the Virgin Islands on the phased reopening of schools.  During my statement on the reopening of schools on Tuesday, 25th August, 2020, I announced that our phased plan to reopen schools was derailed due to a spike in Covid-19 cases in the Territory.  I also stated that this decision would be reviewed in the weeks that followed.  Since then we have had dozens of active cases.  Through the leadership of the Minister of Health and the HEOC team and the cooperation of the public, we have been able to contain this latest outbreak of the Corona Virus, and for this we give all thanks to God!  But we are not out of the woods yet, and, Mr. Speaker, I encourage everyone to remain vigilant and adhere to the various health and social distancing guidelines as we continue in our efforts to combat the virus.

Mr. Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity to update this Honourable House and the Territory on the activities of the Social Security Board.

FOURTEENTH SITTING OF THE SECOND SESSION OF THE FOURTH HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY
PREMIER AND MINISTER OF FINANCE 
HONOURABLE ANDREW A. FAHIE

TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 2020

I wish to update this honourable House on my participation in three recent virtual United Nations meetings that took place against the backdrop of COVID-19.

Mister Speaker thank you for yet another opportunity, to inform the public about the work that is happening in the Territory in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During my first meeting with the Premier and Cabinet, as Director of Tourism, the Premier said that I was having my baptism by fire. Indeed I am. But I am built for firefighting.