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by pltm
(PLTM) - Everyone is not a boat captain or deck hand, Premier and Minister for Finance, Hon. Andrew Fahie said at the launch of the first phase of the ‘Back to the Sea’ Maritime Industry Training Programme, which aims to prepare Virgin Islanders for the numerous sea based professions and trade that abound in the Territory.
During the launch of the programme on August 14, the Premier said that many in the Territory do not realize that there are numerous options for work in the marine sector, and he announced that Government will be educating and supporting persons interested in capitalizing on the various opportunities.
“There is a perception, I am aware, that marine jobs are limited to boat captain and deck hands. But I want to let our young people know that there is a lot more to this field. Allow me to gloss over some of the careers in the marine sector,” the Premier noted.
This Back to the Sea programme is part of the blue economy opportunities that are being pursued by the Government.
In calling on citizens to take advantage of the initiative, the BVI Leader mentioned that the BVI is already the sailing capital of the world, and he declared that with the spinoff from this programme, the Territory can claim a place as the Mecca of the global marine industry.
The Premier also pointed out that commercial maritime activity is not new to the Territory. In fact, he said that this sector is already huge in the BVI.
“It spans small tourist crafts to large shipping vessels, as well as the marinas, docks, ports and infrastructure, and the services such as hospitality and technical services, that support them. It is an area that has a very wide scope – much wider than many people realize.”
Further, Hon. Fahie referred to the marine sector as an economic powerhouse, and noted that the industry drives sailing tourism and supports other goods and services sectors.
“While our marine industry is big business, it has the potential to grow even bigger,” he mentioned.
The Premier also emphasized that the sector needs qualified persons. As such, the Premier said that the programme is not only important, but essential as well.
”If we want to grow the membership of our shipping register and boost the industry, then one of the critical assets we will need is qualified persons to perform the various roles that come with an expanding industry. One of the things that vessel owners look for when choosing a port of call or a home port is trained and experienced human resources support on the ground and on the water. Vessels of various sizes and classes would be attracted to the BVI if the owners know they can find a full crew here – including roles such as deck hands, engineers, stewards and chefs,” the Premier explained.
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