Deputy Premier on Tourism: We have to deliver!

Deputy Premier Lorna Smith has expressed optimism about the BVI’s tourism prospects but firmly believes that much more needs to be done to prepare the territory for growth in this vital industry.

Yesterday, in the House of Assembly (HOA), Smith emphasised the importance of a clean and appealing environment to support the BVI’s tourism product. “If it’s necessary for us to use the Tourist Board to do it, let us do it,” she argued while highlighting the need for a cleaner territory to attract visitors.

Despite the optimism and potential, Smith made it clear that action is needed now. “We have to deliver,” she urged while calling for a renewed focus on completing projects and ensuring that the BVI remains a premier tourism destination. Smith also stressed that the government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility. “All of us own this country, and all of us must take pride in it,” she urged.

The Deputy Premier underscored tourism’s crucial role in the territory’s economy, describing it as one of the twin pillars supporting the BVI. She expressed excitement over upcoming developments, notably the reopening of Peter Island Resort in November, along with continued expansion efforts at other prominent resorts like Oil Nut Bay and Bitter End. Smith suggested these are promising signs of recovery following the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma in 2017.