Fraser
Deputy Premier Julian Fraser has publicly commended Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley, praising his leadership during recent negotiations with the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) over charter vessel fees.
On April 1, the BVI and USVI concluded talks, reaching an agreement on fee structures and operational measures to support the shared charter industry. Fraser said he remained mostly silent during the discussions because the Premier was managing the talks effectively.
“Premier, I want to publicly commend you on the outcome of that meeting and the way you conducted yourself. The [USVI] Governor was wondering why I was quiet, and I told him that you were doing an excellent job, I didn’t have to say anything,” Fraser said.
He also praised the Premier for clarifying to USVI officials that the BVI would not earn a significant amount of revenue from the proposed fee increases. Fraser, who represents District Three, emphasised that the charter industry between the two territories is about more than just economics, pointing to the strong familial and historical ties that bind the BVI and USVI.
According to Fraser, the USVI Governor became more understanding once he realised the limited financial impact on the BVI.
“When the Governor came to Tortola he was thinking we would make a fortune from this initiative and wreak havoc on his economy. But when the Premier told him that the revenue we intend to raise is only $3 million, he was like, ‘why am I here?’ Considering that USVI’s budget is $4 billion and we’re still half a billion. This whole thing between the BVI and USVI is more about relationship—it has to do with everything other than money,” Fraser explained.
With the fee dispute now resolved, the BVI government is expected to soon reintroduce the updated Commercial Recreational Vessel Licensing Act, 1992 (CRVL), which will formalize the new fee structures.
Premier Wheatley has repeatedly stated that the fee adjustments are not primarily about boosting revenue but are instead aimed at modernising the maritime sector and harmonising regulations between both territories.
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