Gov’t getting stronger, Premier says
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has expressed confidence in the increasing strength of his administration, citing accomplishments in economic growth, tourism, and national development.
Speaking during the budget debate in the House of Assembly recently, the Premier expressed optimism for the future, emphasising that the government is “getting stronger” and focused on solving challenges. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to execution, unity, and progress.
“One thing I’m happy about with this government is that we’re getting stronger. As time goes on, we increase in strength,” the Premier said. “It means that we are recognising challenges and we are solving those challenges.”
He said this meant persons who complained previously would have to find new things to complain about. “Our goal is to make sure that the list of things to complain about becomes fewer and fewer,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Dr Wheatley also highlighted the resilience of the Virgin Islands amidst challenges and outlined his vision for a brighter future.
“We have been on a journey in which we have had to show great resilience as a people. Every time we’re knocked down, we get back up, and that has been our story since Hurricane Irma, Maria, and the floods of 2017 visited our shores,” Premier Wheatley said.
A continued story of resilience
He pointed to the global pandemic and what he described as “political upheaval” in the territory as hurdles the government overcame. “We had COI and other events which, of course, disrupted the Virgin Islands in a very significant way, but our story remains one of resilience,” he said while insisting that he remains optimistic about the Virgin Islands.
Premier Wheatley also pointed to consistent economic growth as evidence of the territory’s strength and resilience.
“Our gross domestic product has grown steadily, from $1.1 billion in 2010 to a projected $1.7 billion in 2024,” he stated.
“We have the largest budget in our history. That is as a result of the strength of our economy,” the Premier said. “We have the largest budget in our history, but it doesn’t make any sense to have the largest budget in our history if we don’t execute.”
The Premier called for unity in addressing the territory’s challenges. “Nation-building involves all of us,” he stressed. He urged residents to adopt a positive outlook and work together to improve their communities, from cleaning up neighbourhoods to supporting local businesses. “Our responsibility is to build the best Virgin Islands possible,” he added.
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Long live the King
GDP of 1.1 billion in 2024….? No audited statements in how long? And, you just borrowed $ 100 mill with nary an explanation of funding for monthly payment?
SAY THANKS TO FRASER
There only is room for improvement .
You must be joking.
Didn’t you just borrow 100 million dollars because of lack of routine maintenance and you refuse to show how that money is being spent.
Unless you call every main artery of traffic in horrible condition or closed to be successful.
Premier Wheatley’s claims of a stronger administration and economic growth lack substance. While citing GDP increases and resilience, he provides no evidence that these translate into better infrastructure, public services, or living conditions.
Dismissing critics as needing “new things to complain about” trivializes valid concerns and avoids accountability. His vague claims of solving challenges lack specifics, making his rhetoric feel like empty self-praise.
Calls for unity ring hollow when leadership fails to provide clear direction or structural solutions. Resilience is admirable, but it shouldn’t replace effective governance. The Virgin Islands need results, not rhetoric.
I agree with you 100%. This government is yet to demonstrate capable, forward thinking leadership. With all the consultants we pay to make the premier look smart there should be more evidence of progress. I’m totally unimpressed by the entire government.