Premier and Minister for Tourism and Culture Dr the Hon. Natalio Wheatley has vowed to compensate the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee along with other sub-committees for their tireless work in producing a high-quality 2023 Emancipation Festival.
Premier Wheatley made the promise during the opening ceremony of the 2023 Irene Penn O’Neal Festiville on Monday.
While committee members are often appointed to their respective positions, their services are offered voluntarily as the positions are not salary based.
Premier Wheatley said that oftentimes these individuals are heavily criticised despite the sacrifice that is made to make the festival a reality in the territory.
Chairman of the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee, Dirk Walters, spoke about the sacrifice made by all who contributed to the BVI festivals over the years.