Airport project controversy stems from lack of open discussion- John Lewis
This discussion appears to be a dominating subject on the ground and on the talk shows, with several talk show hosts and callers seemingly affected by one aspect or the other of the project.
Lewis’ remarks came following the host Richard C. de Castro raising the matter on September 10, 2016, stating that a full discussion with everyone is needed, particularly because all information regarding the airport works received is via the media but not from the horse’s mouth.
“… And perhaps that’s where the problem is, the lack of open discussion,” Lewis pointed out.
It was Virgin Islands News Online (VINO) that first and accurately broke the news that two companies- China Communications Construction Company Ltd which the Administration favours and IDL Group that merged with Sir Robert McAlpine Holdings and local partner ADC of the Virgin Islands- that made the final list on the runway extension project.
According to information received from our sources, China Communications Construction Company Ltd’s bid was approximately $154 Million, along with many giveaways, concessions, lots of fee waivers and overseas labour and equipment and IDL Group, the Sir Robert McAlpine Holdings and local partner ADC bid, was reportedly $199 Million.
Project should be spearheaded by locals
John argued that the expertise exists locally for this project since the last expansion of the airport was undertaken with the involvement of VIslanders and if the required technical talents cannot be found in the territory, they can be sourced from Virgin Islanders living abroad.
“For those who think we don’t have the local expertise, I don’t agree,” he remarked.
The choice of a contractor for the Airport Runway Extension Project has divided the Dr D. Orlando Smith alliance, with many long-time NDP supporters, contractors, and Heavy Equipment Operators from the Seventh and Eighth Districts making representation to keep the money local.
No Public review on anything
De Castro said it was time to have a “serious” look at the various aspects of the project and have a full discussion on it, adding that people should be allowed to provide an input on matters affecting them.
He pointed to neighbouring St Thomas, which he said whenever any project is being considered it is required by law to be reviewed by the public. Meanwhile, Lewis said he is unable to comprehend the reasons why there is no presentation to the public especially when millions of dollars are concerned and where it affects people’s lives.
“None of us have all the answers or else we wouldn’t need anybody else,” de Castro pointed out. “We are a growing country and we didn’t get to where we are by accident, a lot of hard work went into doing a lot of things and a lot of sacrifices were made for us to get to where we are. And to see us make a major shift to the point where we are prepared to exclude all the people that put us where we are today, I think that is not a good in my opinion.”
According to the local press, the China Communications Construction Company is on a World Bank blacklist for alleged corruption of one of its subsidiaries and furthermore, the NDP had hidden information about the airport project before the 2015 snap election.
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22 Responses to “Airport project controversy stems from lack of open discussion- John Lewis”
Many of those new planes would descend right over people's houses affecting quality of life.
The start dropping over west end every hour and are disruptive to the tranquility of the community.
Why don't people count? Why is this still on the board when the NDP's house needs to get in order, finances need to be investigated, and if there is truly a need for such an expensive project. It will change the character of the BVI, it is not practical.
Even if they do manage to get a commitment, there likely won't be more than 2 flights a week anyway.
When a bank refuses to lend to a government then we know for sure we have problems.!!!
The controversy also stems from the "done deal" management style this government continues to demonstrate, despite the many objections from the people who put them where they are.