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by pltm
(PLTM) - The National Democratic Party (NDP) government's controversial $153.5M TB Lettsome International Airport expansion project, may have been killed, at least for now, by members of its own administration.
This afternoon, Tuesday, June 13 during the House of Assembly sitting, Hon. Dr. Kedrick Pickering, Deputy Premier and Minister of Natural Resources and Labour, declined to go into details as to why the project is not moving forward, after a preferred bidder, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) was selected since back in December 2016.
"A preferred bidder for the airport project was selected at the end of 2016. Some discussions have taken place, including with potential financiers and regulatory authorities. The government is now considering its next steps," said Dr. Pickering, who was responding to questions posed by Opposition Member, Hon. Julian Fraser.
Hon. Fraser however wanted more answers.
"According to the Deputy Premier, the studies were embarked upon in 2009, which he correctly pointed out that he was not the Minister at the time. And in 2012, he came into office and continued the process, at some expense I might add. One of the RFPs (Request for Proposals) was selected by Cabinet," Hon. Fraser said.
He added, "And he also pointed out the intended purpose of extending the runway, which has everything to do with our economy. And from the time that RFP was selected to today, he is saying to me that the government is considering its options. What are the underlining factors; what is there for you to consider?"
Dr. Pickering, who strongly supports the project, which falls under his Ministry, insisted that his answer remains the same and made it clear that he said "government".
"The last part of the answer says the government is considering its next steps."
Hon. Fraser then directly asked, "Are you going ahead or are you not going ahead?"
"The government is considering its next step," the Natural Resources Minister insisted.
It is no secret that some members of the NDP, including backbenchers, are against the project moving forward now. So much so, that some have publicly spoken out against it in the House of Assembly. It is now left to be seen if the project will resurrect.
Dr. Pickering, at today's sitting of the House of Assembly, pitched that the project is good for the economy.
"An important objective of any government is to support the development of the economy to the benefit of all its citizens. It is widely recognized that improved air access is one route to supporting the economic development of the Territory," he said.
Dr Pickering indicated that extension of the runway to about 7100 feet would allow larger airline fleet to fly directly to the Beef Island runway.
"At present, established U.S airlines all cite the inability to operate from the BVI due to the runway length," the Minister said.
