IN the weeks ahead, a new system will be reintroduced at Fort Island to boost revenue collection for the island’s sustainability.

During a visit to the Island on Sunday, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, was told of the many challenges the residents face to maintain the beauty and serenity of the island, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure said in a release. To aid in the maintenance of the island, a resident suggested that a toll system should be reintroduced, whereby boat owners who stop at the stelling to offload passengers and tourists, pay a small fee.
According to her, this system was once operational but operators gradually refused to pay the toll due to the condition of the stelling.

Minister Patterson said he was in favour of the suggestion but added that it will be implemented after the stelling is repaired. On this note, he pointed out that an assessment was conducted which found that the rehabilitation works could cost in excess of $40 million.

The rehabilitation can be facilitated in Budget 2020, the minister said. Residents were pleased with this decision as they explained that the revenue generated could be used to upgrade their school and other public structures.

A request was made for street lights to be provided as tourists would frequent the island at nights, although harmful reptiles are common on the island. In this regard, Minister Patterson committed to supplying the residents with six lights as soon as possible. Accompanying the minister on the visit to Fort Island was Member of Parliament, Michael Carrington, who urged those settled on the island to invest in food businesses and even accommodation for visitors as the island is gaining momentum as a tourist attraction. The youths were especially encouraged to apply for grants from the government to fund their investment ideas.