Work Permit Requirement For Foreign-Based Recreational Vessels Rescinded

No Image Found!
Provided

(PLTM) - The charter industry which has complained bitterly about the heavy-handed approach of Government earlier has already seeing relief under the Government of National Unity (GNU) as requirements are being rolled back for foreign based commercial recreational vessels conducting day or term charters or water taxis.

Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon. Natalio Wheatley who has responsibility for tourism, said effective Friday, November 11, Government has taken the decision not to require BVI trade licences from foreign based commercial recreational vessels conducting day or term charters or water taxis.

"Work Permits will not be required for the crew working on these vessels," Premier Wheatley announced today, November 14.

According to the Premier, Government is currently formulating new policies and amendments to existing legislation that will recognise transient vessels, modify fees, provide greater ease of access while ensuring that the economic value of locally based charter operations is protected.

"We are grateful to those who have chosen to have their base of operations in the BVI, we recognise their important continuous contribution to the BVI economy and we in no way underestimate the value of this sector," Premier Wheately stated.

Earlier this year the former Virgin Islands Party (VIP) Government led by embattled former Premier Andrew Fahie came under heavy critcisms from local charter companies for enforcing certain requirements which were deemed to be done without adequate time given the shipping delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Several vessels were detain in wide-spread sweeps conducted by the HM Customs and the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry.

-----
Copyright 2023 by Virgin Islands Platinum News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Reader Opinion
Please note that the opinions posted are the opinions of its author and does not in any way reflect the views of the management, staff, parent company or sponsors of Virgin Islands Platinum News.
There are no comments to show at this time.
Cruise Schedule
IN PORT - TODAY ( 28 March )
We have no cruise ship in port on this day!
IN PORT - TOMORROW ( 29 March )
We have no cruise ship in port on this day!