Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) speaking at the November 6, 2019 launch of Banco Popular on Virgin Gorda. Photo: VINO

Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) said that one of the priorities of his government is to improve the airstrip and facilities at the Taddy Bay airport. Photo: VINO/File

With the return of banking to the sister island of Virgin Gorda after over a year of being without those services, Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) says the island now has tremendous economic potential now and in the future under his government. Photo: Facebook

The Premier was at the time speaking at yesterday's November 6, 2019, launch of Banco Popular on the island where he noted that the Virgin Islands is recovering in strengths and Virgin Gorda is no different.

Economy rebounding 

"The BVI with Virgin Gorda, of course, is rebounding as we speak, we are resilient people and resiliency is in our DNA," Hon Fahie said. 

He pointed out that businesses are getting back on their feet and opening their doors, "commercial activities are picking back up and if your government succeeds in its mission, the opportunities will be greater than what we knew before," Premier Fahie told those gathered.

Turning his attention to one of the island's ports of entry, Hon Fahie said, "This is why one of the priorities of your government is to improve the airstrip and facilities at the Taddy Bay Airport. For that airport also, better will come." 

The Taddy Bay Airport is a major port of entry for the island and is one of the only ways to get there via commercial air transport. Over the years, the airport has been plagued by a number of issues such as damaged airstrip and problematic airport equipment.  

99.9% guarantee 

"We recognise that there is tremendous economic potential on Virgin Gorda, now and in the future. With so many businesses coming on stream... I can guarantee 99.9 percent that the economy of Virgin Gorda will lift and rise and flourish so great that the three days in Banco Popular will turn into 5 days," Premier Fahie said.

The Banco Popular Branch on Virgin Gorda will initially be opening 3 days a week.

The Premier also noted that for the people living on the other sister islands of Anegada and Jost van Dyke, the government will look into their challenges and inconveniences as it relates to banking.

"Your government loves you and will find ways to address your concerns," Hon Fahie affirmed.