BVI economy not at a standstill, Premier insists

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has disputed claims that the BVI economy is at a standstill, labelling such narratives misleading.

Appearing earlier this week on the Honestly Speaking Show with Claude Skelton Cline, Dr Wheatley countered these assertions, defending the government’s progress and efforts. In response to perceptions, particularly from the business community, that economic activity has stalled, Premier Wheatley stated, “To say that things have been absolutely at a standstill is not completely accurate.”

He highlighted numerous projects undertaken in recent years, including repairs to essential infrastructure damaged during hurricanes Irma and Maria. Dr Wheatley noted that the government has been executing projects under a $65 million loan agreement, including repairs to recreational facilities, government buildings, clinics, and hospitals. He emphasised that while there may be challenges, particularly due to the introduction of a new Procurement Act and the effects of the Commission of Inquiry (COI), the idea that nothing has moved forward is an oversimplification of the situation.