Government’s travel budget nearing $3M for 2024 — Mather

Territorial At-Large Representative Stacey ‘Buddha’ Mather has raised alarms about the government’s travel spending for 2024, revealing that the current expenses have far exceeded the budgeted amount.

Mather’s concerns were voiced during a recent Opposition forum, where he questioned whether the increasing travel costs reflect misaligned priorities amid the territory’s financial challenges. “In 2024, it was budgeted $1.9 million dollars for travel. The actuals right now are $2.7 million,” Mather highlighted. “Does this mean that they spend more time abroad than here? What are we doing?”

Mather’s comments highlight the significant difference between the initial budget and the current travel spending. “When you look at the cost of living in the BVI, much has been said about consumer protection, but we don’t have it. Our people are screaming out,” Mather emphasised, noting that the government should address local economic issues. He pointed to the rising prices of basic goods as an example. “I grew up in a BVI where a bag of sugar was $2-3. How much is it now — $6?” Mather asked.