VI’s rebirth a constant source of excitement- Hon Flax-Charles
Hon Flax-Charles made the remarks on April 12, 2022, during the re-opening of the Captain Owen G. Harrigan Visitor Centre in Gun Creek, Virgin Gorda.
“Many times when I get the privilege of addressing my people, I find myself expressing my excitement… But, those of you that listen to me have probably begun to wonder if a sane person can actually be that excited so often.”
Hurricane Irma & COVID-19
Hon Flax-Charles continued, “Well, I am not fake or off the hinges. I remember too well in 2017 when I was in the United States and had to hear of the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma. I have clear and sharp memories of my hasty return. Traversing the islands I felt sick with fear and loss.”
Hon Flax-Charles added, that even as the VI rebuilt, as a people, the territory has fresher memories of crisis as local industries, churches and schools had to be closed to protect from a new form of terror called COVID-19.
“Silently and without announcement, we lost lives, livelihoods, and our way of living,” she added.
“So yes, every time I get the opportunity to see our rebirth and our return to life as before, this humble representative whose first love is her country, is beyond enthused,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hon Flax-Charles added that every time buildings are given that final touch of paint, she is reminded that the territory survived through the help of God and that the people must no longer fear the destruction of the past.
VI's resilience rewarded - Hon Flax-Charles
“Our resilience, investments, and unity will be, and are being, rewarded! Even at this facility alone, I am excited, yes there’s that word again, as I think of the impact that Gun Creek’s return as an entry port and domestic travel hub will have on the community and wider tourism product and affiliated industries,” she said.
Hon Flax-Charles said for decades the Virgin Islands has been a favoured destination for the world’s billionaires and now, they can remain in their playground and have much of their entry requirements and processes through the re-opened facility.
“Gun Creek continues to increase convenience and maximise leisure for many of our valued guests. We also now can have dialogue about the return of seaplane flights directly to this aspect of our experience as a destination,” she said.
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