An animal pound is a place where stray livestock gets impounded. The animals are kept in an enclosure until they are claimed by their owners or sold. Minister Wheatley said during the House of Assembly on Wednesday, March 10 that the animal pound is part of the major works taking place in that area.

He explained that the facility is to “alleviate some issues we face with roaming animals and the damage they can cause to properties throughout the territory.”

Agriculture & Fisheries Marketing Authority Bill

In the meantime, Wheatley said an initial draft of the Agriculture and Fisheries Marketing Authority Bill is being worked on.

“An initial draft of the Agriculture and Fisheries Marketing Authority Bill was prepared and approved by cabinet to undergo final drafting by the Attorney General’s chambers. Once the final draft is complete, it will be taken to the cabinet for final approval before it is laid in the House of Assembly,” he remarked.

He then urged residents to familiarize themselves with this Bill and weigh in as much as possible.

Notably, this authority will be tasked with the re-establishment of what was once known as the BVI Fishing complex.
Dr. Wheatley informed that the BVI Fishing Complex will be repurposed to include not only have fish for sale but agricultural produce as well.

“We are excited about this vision and see this as a necessary step to support our fishing and farming community and other industries connected to these sectors such as tourism,” he remarked.