Co-host of Talking Points, Damion C. Grange, has opined that proper infrastructure needs to be put in place to support Event Tourism in the Virgin Islands (VI). Photo: Internet Source

(L-R) Talking Points Co-hosts Damion C. Grange and Violet Thomas-Gaul on Talking Points on November 17, 2025. Photo: Facebook

He shared his views during "Talking Points" on ZBVI 780 AM on Monday, November 17, 2025, ahead of the inaugural call of the UberSoca Cruise at Cyril B. Romney Pier Park on November 18, 2025. 

UberSoca Cruise’s arrival saw many of its over 3000 passengers disembark on Tortola and partaking in the J’ouvert Punk Rock edition through the streets of Road Town. 

“I am in support of Event Tourism, I am in support of the push to diversify the product,” Grange said adding, “I would just hope that we are doing so in a way that we can literally track the progress, make sure the associated risks are minimised as much as possible, and we are doing so in a fiscally responsible way.”

Concerned about infrastructure

Grange continued that what concerns him is the infrastructure to support event tourism. 

“I would love for things to be done in a more planned or structured approach.”

He used the road network as one example, stating that the roads need to be as safe as possible. 

Grange also said the healthcare system needs to be equipped to deal with mass casualties. 

“If at the Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital, you have two ambulances and one may conk out before it leaves the parking lot, then you’re probably going to want to reconsider having a number of persons on the ground.”

Grange added that the issue of accommodation also needs to be looked at. 

“What if something happens while the ship is in port, and these people need to be housed on land?”