During a debate on the “Tourist Board (Amendment) Bill, 2024,” Hon. Marlon Penn, Member for the 8th District, raised concerns about the legality of the BVI Tourist Board’s continued assumption of duties which are still legally held by the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee.
Penn argued that without proper legislative action, the Tourist Board’s current handling of festival and fair responsibilities, including budget allocation, may be unlawful. He emphasized that the Festival and Fairs Committee Act remains in effect.
While praising new measures in the amendment aimed at improving management and governance in the tourism sector, Penn called for increased transparency, particularly regarding event spending.
He stressed the need for legal action to ensure the Tourist Board’s operations comply with existing laws.
Penn warned of potential future challenges for the board due to the lack of necessary legislative changes.
He criticized what he perceived as selective application of good governance principles, noting the board’s seemingly illegal operations concerning festival management.