The center, located on Gun Creek in Virgin Gorda is home to Customs and Immigration for those visiting the North Sound and is regarded the gateway to several other islands. Photo: Facebook

Premier and Minter of finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) during the re-opening ceremony on April 12, 2022, said members of his government would remind him that the facility needs repairing with constant calls and messages. Photo: GIS/Facebook

Meanwhile, Jr Minister for Tourism Hon Sharie B. de Castro (AL) expressed gratitude to the BVI Ports Authority for executing the project and ensuring the center is re-opened. Photo: GIS/Facebook

The visitor center, which is home to Customs and Immigration for those visiting the North Sound and is regarded the gateway to several other islands, was in need of repairs.

Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1), during the re-opening ceremony on April 12, 2022, said members of his government would remind him via constant calls and messages that the facility needed repairing.

Refurbishment made a priority 

“We made it a priority and we turned it over to the BVI Ports Authority and the BVI Ports Authority has not let us down,” Hon Fahie added, while calling for applause.

“Whenever you have to do these projects you always going to have a lot of issues popping up… Anytime you are going to do anything that is beyond your control, beyond your power and authority to get it done, you can only get it done through God.

“But if you wait until you have everything properly calculated and the funds intact to move, you will never get it done. Never allow the perfect to be the enemy of the greater good,” Hon Fahie remarked. 

The Premier added that the foreparents of the VI never built a house when they had all the money and material, rather, it was a gradual process which he said reflects the spirit and DNA of the VI.

"We can’t do everything all at once, it's going to take time, but doing nothing is not an option,” he added while pointing out that the BVIPA used the same spirit to execute the project.

Building 'refitted for purpose' - Hon de Castro  

Meanwhile, Jr Minister for Tourism Hon Sharie B. de Castro (AL) expressed gratitude to the BVI Ports Authority for executing the project and ensuring the center is re-opened.

“I want to give special commendations to BVI Ports Authority today for ensuring that this building has been re-opened and has been refitted for the purpose of ensuring international travel to this area. It’s important because as we put names to buildings, the legacy of the individuals should be kept in mind.”

To the family of Harrigan, Hon de Castro said the VI will continue to do whatever is necessary to enhance the infrastructure and opportunities in this building to ensure the memory of their loved one lives on.

Hon de Castro further remarked that government is cognisant of the critical need for the facility to enhance tourism to VG and the territory at large.

“We understand the importance and how this facility caters to transit to the outer islands and resorts that are in this area. The Bitter End Yacht Club, Saba Rock, Biras Creek, Mosquito Island, Necker Island, Prickly Pear, Eustatia all use this facility.

“We understand that we have an environment that is conducive so that our visitors can have a welcoming experience as our residents so we can traverse our waters, this is important to us,” Hon de Castro while noting the repair has been a collaborative effort between government agencies and statutory bodies.