Cabinet defers implementation of BVI harbor fees
BREAKING NEWS: Cabinet indefinitely defers implementation of BVI harbor fees
'The Anchorage at the Bitter End YC, Virgin Gorda'
Nancy Birnbaum
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In a letter this week to the Cruising Compass and BWS Magazine, Steve Black, Director of the Caribbean 1500 Rally stated that Cabinet has decided to indefinitely defer the implementations of harbor fees for vessels entering or remaining in Territorial waters or those using a BVI Ports Authority facility.
In a statement today, Premier Honourable Ralph T. O'Neal, OBE revealed that the decision was taken at a specially convened sitting of the Cabinet on Monday.
It was previously announced that the new fee structure would have taken effect on July 1st but was subsequently deferred until July 15th.
However, the Premier explained that based on representations made to Government by local associations, maritime agents and others involved in the yachting industry both locally and abroad, the decision was taken to defer the introduction of fees in an attempt to protect the Territory's competitive edge as a yachting destination.
'After all the BVI has been known as the sailing capital of the Western Hemisphere, if not of the world, and therefore it was extremely important for Cabinet to consider the representations that were made, as the Cabinet will do for any representation that the people will make,' the Premier stated. 
He added: 'It must be remembered that the yachting industry contributes to the economy of the Territory and the yachtsmen enjoy our waters from Anegada to Jost Van Dyke.'
The Premier further explained that the yachting industry is a significant contributor to the local economy and as such the sector must be safe-guarded against adverse impacts.
'Cabinet reviewed the new fee structure and also we considered the cost implications of the charges when compared to the rising cost of fuel,' the Premier said. He added that, 'In addition, Cabinet determined that if the BVI were to implement this new fee structure, the Territory may have become the most expensive destination in the world for mariners and yachts.'
In addition to indefinitely deferring the introduction of harbor fees, the BVI Cabinet has agreed to establish a seven-member focus group to review said fees. The group is expected to submit its report to Cabinet by September, 2008.
Be sure to check back each week to get the latest news on this important issue facing Caribbean cruisers.
by Nancy Birnbaum -Cruising Compass
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