Country at a standstill — Skelton Cline

Clergyman and commentator Claude Skelton Cline has expressed concern over what he describes as the stagnation of the BVI’s economy, particularly for the business community.

Appearing on his “Honestly Speaking” radio show recently, Skelton Cline said, “Any business owner in the business community will tell you it’s a standstill.”

Pointing to critical challenges facing the territory, Skelton Cline highlighted the need for government action to revitalise economic activity. He urged policymakers to take decisive steps, especially regarding critical infrastructure such as the Terrance B Lettsome International Airport.

“We need to see the expansion of the airport and set aside all these naysayers who don’t want to see proper airlift in this country,” he stated, adding that the expansion was not just a commercial necessity but a matter of national security.

Skelton Cline also discussed delays in implementing the minimum wage increase, initially slated to take effect in November. He emphasised the importance of ensuring workers earn a living wage, noting that many residents face significant financial pressures.

“People are compromised when they’re not able to become gainfully employed and work for a living wage,” he argued. The clergyman stressed that better wages and lower living costs could help curb illegal activities often driven by economic hardship.

We don’t trust our government

Touching on broader socio-political issues, Skelton Cline argued that the public’s lack of trust in governing institutions further complicates the situation. He noted a prevailing scepticism toward both government and authority figures.

“We no longer trust our governments, no matter who they are,” he said. “We have a very low view of governments, of politicians. As a matter of fact, we have a very low estimation of any body of authority.” He warned that this mistrust creates fertile ground for instability and poor governance.

Skelton Cline’s call comes amid ongoing deliberations in the House of Assembly’s Standing Finance Committee to finalise the 2025 budget. He emphasised the urgency of passing a budget that allocates sufficient resources for critical sectors such as immigration, customs, and public works. “I hope that this government will prove itself to be a government of spine and backbone and can do what has got to be done,” he said.

While acknowledging some positive developments, such as the cruise tourism sector’s contributions, Skelton Cline maintained that more needs to be done to ensure sustainable economic growth.