Works Minister being marginalised?

Businessman and clergyman John Cline has suggested that Works Minister Kye Rymer is being marginalised within the government, with his ministry starved of much-needed funding.

Cline made these claims during an interview on JTV, where he pointed out that despite its importance, Rymer’s ministry is not receiving adequate resources to meet its goals. Cline expressed concern that while Rymer remains loyal to Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley, he is being overlooked in favour of other political agendas. “He’s literally being set up to fail. You know, you can win your district, but if you can’t deliver anything…,” Cline said, referring to the Works Minister’s apparent inability to advance in his political career despite his loyalty.

Cline highlighted Rymer’s financial constraints in his ministry and argued that Premier Wheatley kept a “stranglehold” on the BVI’s finances. He revealed that Rymer had requested $30 million to address critical infrastructure needs such as roads and sewerage systems but was only allocated $1.8 million. “So you marginalise me in terms of financial resources to deliver on my portfolio,” Cline said, expressing Rymer’s frustrations. Cline argued that there was no guarantee that Premier Wheatley would win re-election in his Seventh District but opined that this was different for Rymer, who is well-liked by his Fifth District constituents. However, Cline raised concerns that this favourability may be at risk due to his constraints.