The seventh sitting of the second session of the third House of Assembly is slated to convene this morning, with a schedule that includes debates on several bills ranging in topic from cruise permits to customs duties to the International Tax Authority.
Premier Dr. Orlando Smith is scheduled to move for the second and third readings of the Development Bank of the Virgin Islands (Transfer of Assets and Liabilities) Act, 2017; the International Tax Authority Act, 2016; the Cruising Permit (Amendment) Act, 2017; the Customs Management and Duties (Amendment) Act, 2017; and the Secure Search (Beneficial Ownership) System Act, 2017.
Dr. Smith (R-at large), who is the finance minister, is also expected to move a motion regarding work permit fee changes.
Opposition Leader Andrew Fahie (R-D1) is scheduled to ask the premier several questions about government’s contract with BVI Airways — including whether or not the company is purchasing or leasing its aircrafts, a topic about which documents and press releases have provided apparently contradictory information in recent months.
He also plans to ask Dr. Smith about the status of the cruise pier audit and several government contracts, among other topics.
Additionally, the opposition leader is scheduled to ask Communications and Works Minister Mark Vanterpool (R-D4) questions about several infrastructure projects, and Education and Culture Minister Myron Walwyn (R-at large) about the approval process and contracts regarding the new Grade 12 classrooms.
Opposition member Julian Fraser (R-D3) is scheduled to ask Deputy Premier Dr. Kedrick Pickering (R-D7) about whether or not he has a plan to deal with the cattle roaming the streets of the territory.
He also plans to ask Mr. Vanterpool about various road and water issues.
Dr. Smith is scheduled to table the Statutory Instrument 2016 No. 79 – Statutory Rates, Fees and Charges (Amendment of Schedule) Order, 2016; and the Accountant General – Fourth Quarter Financial Report for the Year Ended on Dec. 31, 2016.
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