Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie has announced that the first phase of the Economic Stimulus Package for the Virgin Islands as a result of COVID-19 will be submitted to Cabinet this week.
The Premier in his announcement yesterday said that as Minister of Finance, he will be addressing the Territory on the Preliminary Economic Stimulus Plan for the people and businesses in short order.
“Just like your Government took its time, but moved with haste in the preventative measures of COVID-19 in the BVI to ensure your safety, so will your Government do the same with the Economic Stimulus Package for your prosperity”, the Premier said.
Since the declaration of COVID-19 a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO), Premier Fahie and the other Ministers of Government have announced the following to assist residents and business owners vulnerable to economic hardships.
- Minister for Transportation Works and Utilities, Honourable Kye Rymer announced on March 19 that there will be a suspension on charges for water for all Water and Sewerage Department customers for a 30-day period.
- Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley announced on March 20 that a sum of $2 million dollars was allocated to farmers and fisher folk to purchase much needed supplies for business continuity.
- Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Carvin Malone announced on April 6 that over 400 residents received assistance through the expansion of social services offered in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Government of the Virgin Islands allocated $12 million dollars to ensure the procurement of the necessary supplies and structure needed for preparedness to manage COVID-19 in the Virgin Islands.