According to a press release on the donation, the unit will be installed at the COVID-19 Testing Tent at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital.

During the handover ceremony, Managing Director of CTL Mr. Michael Thomas said that initially he thought of inviting other businesses to join in the initiative, but figured that too much time would elapse organizing such a feat.

Therefore, he said a decision was made to move forward with CTL and Tropical Air Conditioning. It was noted that the two companies considered various air conditioning options and models before deciding on the 25- Ton Unit.

In making the presentation Mr. Thomas said, “It is indeed my pleasure to be able to present this Unit, to turn this Unit over to the Health Services Authority. I appreciate the work that you guys have been doing...I know you are working under some very strenuous conditions ... and whatever we can do as an organization, because we do believe in giving back.”

Manager for Tropical Air-Conditioning Mr. Ariel Smith noted that his company was seeking a way to help the BVI community during the COVID-19 pandemic and was happy when Mr. Thomas reached out to him. Mr. Smith said, “Tropical Air Conditioning is pleased, and we are happy that we could be a part of this initiative with CTL. We stand committed to whatever can be done from our standpoint to assist the BVI Health Services Authority in trying to curve and manage this pandemic.”

He further stated that the donated Unit took two weeks to arrive and that it will serve the space adequately.

The donation was accepted by Minister for Health and Social Development Hon. Carvin Malone who said, “I am especially pleased with the level of corporate contribution that CTL has continued...We have had a number of contributions made to this particular institution, we have had contributions made by CTL before and we’ll continue to do this, but this is timely, this is critical, and this is important for us as we move this forward.”

While thanking the partner company Hon. Malone said, “Tropical Air Condition has been a fixture in this community, they have worked to ensure that they are the best in what they do, and when you look at what is offered today my heart is overjoyed.”

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer (Acting) of the BVIHSA Mrs. Cedorene Malone-Smith in her response said that this is an excellent example of public-private partnership, “Mr. Thomas saw a need and responded to it. The BVIHSA is grateful especially because we cannot do this alone,” she said.