ANXIETY IN BVICCHA ABOUT A TIMELINE FOR RE-OPENING THE BORDERS
Written by Fuze Team on July 9, 2020
There is said to be growing anxiety in the business community, to hear from the government on a time-line for the reopening of the borders.
The BVI Chamber of Commerce and Hotel Association, (BVICCHA) has been asking for a phased reopening date so they can market and prepare accordingly.
They had also asked if there are resources the Government may need that the private sector can assist with; as well as what border management and protocols will be in place when reopening happens.
Interim Chairperson of the BVICCHA Shaina Smith said they held a consultative meeting with the BVI Tourist board two weeks ago where they made some recommendations.
Smith said the Chamber recommends that conditions for reopening include a pre-health clearance where visitors will be asked to submit COVID-19 test results a minimum of 48 hours before arrival or to be tested on arrival and self-quarantine for the period here, up to 14 days. Adherence to all government health and safety protocols by the businesses would be required.
We are also recommending that the Virgin Islands reopen fully 1 September 2020 to facilitate those industry practitioners who have been receiving booking inquiries.
Shaina Smith
According to her, having a firm date would give the industry stakeholders the time needed to market and prepare their operations following Governmental protocols.
She said it would also allow airlines to reinstate their routes and they are also proposing that visitors be required to submit a pre-health clearance where COVID-19 test results are submitted in advance of arrival and that the seaports in West End and Road Town be reopened to facilitate travel via the USVI.
