|
Governor de Jongh
Writes BVI Premier O'Neal Over Impact of the Implementation of
Small Commercial Vessels Code on Local Boating Industry
Responding to concerns from both residents and individuals who form the backbone of the territory’s boating community, Governor John P.
de Jongh, Jr. has written to the Premier of the British Virgin Islands Ralph T. O’Neal as regards the impact of the implementation of the new Small Commercial Vessels
(SCV) Code. The Code was implemented on February 1 by the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry
(VISR).
de Jongh
explained that our small commercial boating industry has been especially hard hit by the downturn in the world economy and is seeing a decline in charter revenues at a time when the cost of doing business, especially the cost of fuel, is significantly rising. “These businesses are suffering and fear the additional costs arising from the implementation of the regulations would cause further, critical damage.”
The governor said he has been assured by the representatives of the local boating industry that they have absolutely no dispute with the BVI’s authority to implement rules designed to enhance boating safety and security in its own waters, nor those intended to protect commercial operators and passengers alike. “I request, on their behalf, a delay in the implementation of the SCV Code, not just for financial requirements being imposed, but so that certain elements of the SCV Code can be more specifically tailored to operations here in our waters. I believe this is a reasonable request, and is made with good intent and if granted, will promote goodwill,”
de Jongh wrote.
The governor asked for the government of the British Virgin Islands and the VISR to hold the implementation of the new rules for a reasonable period “to allow our governments, as well as our boating industries, to confer on the concerns raised by the SCV Code provisions. It is my hope that our two Governments, along with our boating communities, can work together on measures that will at once take into consideration current economic hardships while enhancing the safety of all who ply our waters.”
de Jongh also suggested that both governments use the Inter Virgin Islands Council to facilitate a discussion. In the past, the council has met to discuss issues of mutual concern to both territories.
###
|
