Flax-Charles Backs Higher National Parks Fees
Former legislator Shereen Flax-Charles has defended recent fee increases by the National Parks Trust, stating that additional revenue is essential to maintain public facilities across the territory. She emphasized that funds are critically needed for staffing, supplies, and maintenance across all 22 protected parks.
Former legislator Shereen Flax-Charles has defended recent fee increases introduced by the National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands, arguing that higher revenue is necessary to adequately maintain public amenities and key visitor attractions across the territory. Speaking during an appearance on the National Democratic Party radio programme, Let's Talk, We're Listening, Flax-Charles acknowledged public discontent over the adjusted rates but insisted that the financial adjustments are essential for basic operations.
She stressed that the Trust requires sustained funding to ensure that public amenities, including restrooms and visitor centres, remain open and functional. Flax-Charles highlighted the ongoing operational expenses required to keep public bathrooms clean and stocked with supplies, noting that residents and tourists quickly complain whenever such amenities fall into disrepair or are forced to shut down.
She explained that without sufficient revenue, the Trust cannot hire the personnel or purchase the materials needed to uphold acceptable standards. Reflecting on her tenure in the House of Assembly, Flax-Charles recalled that she repeatedly raised the Trust's financial difficulties during Standing Finance Committee meetings.
She pointed out that funding is vital not only for premier attractions such as The Baths on Virgin Gorda, but also across the 22 protected terrestrial and marine parks under the organisation's management. During the discussion, Flax-Charles also addressed operational issues at the Trellis Bay visitor facility on Beef Island, which had recently experienced a week-long closure due to an electrical problem.
While she moved to highlight the issue to ensure swift repairs, she criticised the lack of timely public notices informing commuters and travellers of the temporary shutdown. The National Parks Trust has faced well-documented financial constraints over recent years. Cassander Titley-O'Neal highlighted significant operational challenges, including staffing shortages, escalating maintenance costs, and the inadequacy of the long-standing three-dollar entrance fee to support the territory's expanding conservation network.
Primary source: BVI News