The New BVI Minister for Communications and Works Entering into Office

Honourable Chief Minister Dr. Orlando Smith designated Mr. Stoutt for the post of the new Minister for Communications and Works of the British Virgin Islands, after having revoked from this post Hon. J. Alvin Christopher. As discussed before, the most probable reason for his removal on Tuesday were multiple delays in the development of telecommunications sector in the BVI. The last of which was absence of support for the BVI Government initiative to remove the telecommunications Liberalisation Bill from the Order paper.

On Wednesday Honourable Elmor Stoutt signed the Oath of Executive Councillor, the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath for the Due Execution of Office at Government House, in the presence of His Excellency Governor David Pearey, Chief Minister Honourable Dr. D. Orlando Smith, Minister of Education and Culture Honourable Lloyd Black and family members. After that brief swearing-in ceremony he was formally appointed the Minister for Communications and Works of the BVI offshore jurisdiction.

Honourable Elmore Stoutt reported to the Ministry this afternoon after his first meeting of Executive Council, and was warmly welcomed by staff. The new BVI Minister noticed that he is looking forward to meeting with heads of departments and units on Thursday. He said: "This is very important. We must have that cohesive approach in doing things so that everyone speaks the same language."

In the BVI offshore jurisdiction, the Minister of Communications and Works has control over diverse branches of national economy, including building standards, electricity, roads, telecommunications, transport and traffic, ports and harbours, civil aviation, explosives, water, fire and rescue service, marine transport, meteorology.

Let’s hope the latest changes will make a positive impact on the BVI telecommunications sector.