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Press Release From Independent Source

Government signs MOU with Disney to bolster tourism

The MOU with Disney Cruise Line will allow the Territory to extend the cruise ship pier in Road Harbour and make further modifications to accommodate larger cruise ships. Photo: Reuben Stoby/VINO
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- The Government of the Virgin Islands has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Disney Cruise Line that will allow the Territory to extend the cruise ship pier in Road Harbour and make further modifications to accommodate larger cruise ships, a GIS press release has stated.

The MOU is between the BVI Ports Authority and Disney Cruise Line. In the signing on Friday, October 28 Premier and Minister for Tourism Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal said, “We believe this will give us a competitive edge in the cruise industry and further bolster our economy.”

He explained that as part of this business arrangement, Disney Cruise Line will provide a loan to help with the improvements in exchange for preferential berthing rights.

“We are thrilled that Disney wants to continue to bring guests to our beautiful port of call as they plan for the future,” Premier O’Neal said, adding, “Our goal is to ensure that the Virgin Islands (VI) maintains its market share and competitive edge in the cruise industry.”

He said that Government is aware that larger ships are being built and the region is being seen as a pristine destination for this vibrant market.

“We recognise that in order for the Territory to remain a competitive destination and envy of the Caribbean it must keep pace with the dynamic cruise industry. We must be ready for the boom we see coming,” he further added.

Director of the BVI Ports Authority Mr. Vincent O’Neal said that his team is looking forward to its working relationship with Disney.

The upgrading of ports is in keeping with Government’s commitment to maintain the Territory’s leadership position as an upscale tourist destination.

3 Responses to “Government signs MOU with Disney to bolster tourism”

  • OUTSTANDING (03/11/2011, 22:42) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    THIS WHAT I AM TALKING ABOUT!!!
  • shark (04/11/2011, 04:49) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    A few months ago there was a meeting held at the HLSCC auditorium Held by the now Premier.From the context of that meeting he assured that his government have no intention to extend the Cruise ship dock to accommodate larger cruise ships.Now with the election heat on now,after the Virgin Islands Party Government have destroyed the Cruise_Ship industry now they are singing MOU with the Ports Authority to extended the cruise Pier can you believe this man.Is he using this as a gimmick trying to woo voters,or trying to get people to vote for their party.Look and the situation of the economy,the infrastructure, the high sur-charge on the electricity bills the cost of living,house rent,the price of food.and if you listen to them just bashing each other night after night during their campaign ,what are the solutions they are proposing to fix our economy.I do hope for the citizen of this country,put the state and well being of this country at heart,do not let greed,personal gains, favors,hinder anyone from making the wise decision use then pen and and paper make the difference make a change,let us all preserve this wonderful country we call home.
    • Music (04/11/2011, 09:29) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      We are gradually selling our soul to the devil(s). We will be having Mickey and Minny on the cruise ship pier next! At the end of the Biwater contract we will be given "free of charge" some 16 or so year old plant which we will then have to pay to run and maintain. Free! There aint no free lunch!


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