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by pltm
(PLTM) - The fallout and grounding of plans by BVI Airways, to operate direct flights between Miami and the BVI, after Government provided $7.2M to the airline, is unfortunate, according to Governor John Duncan.
Governor Duncan, who is winding down his tenure in the BVI as the United Kingdom's (UK) representative, told BVI Platinum News that the programme was ambitious.
"It was an ambitious programme, but it's unfortunate where we are," he said.
Governor Duncan added, "And it's in the hands of the Premier and the Government."
Last week, BVI Airways announced that it was forced to lay off its entire flight crew, due to financial issues, and also blamed the BVI Government for the delay and the repercussions being encountered.
The airline alleged that improvements to the TB Lettsome International Airport, as required under the contract with Government, to meet basic commercially acceptable standards for processing passenger volume of this size, have not been completed.
BVI Airways stated that the pre-operating carry costs alone have cost the airline millions of dollars over the past year, and have depleted most of its cash reserves.
However, in a short response, the Government said that it has provided all the monies to BVI Airways, as agreed under its contract, and has also met the necessary obligations.
"Having provided the agreed support, this Government and people are awaiting the commencement of the much anticipated direct Miami/BVI flights," Government said.
Opposition Leader, Hon. Andrew Fahie, who has been critical of the way the agreement was done, has since called on Government to tell the people the truth.
"How much are the people prepared to suffer? It is quite amazing! Questions have been asked over and over in the House of Assembly about the contract in question, but usually no answers, but always insults," the Opposition Leader stated.
