In August 2020, during the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, the BVI Ports Authority (BVIPA) made the tough decision to reduce the hours worked by its hourly paid staff, as the operational needs of the organisation reduced. As a result, these employees’ salaries were affected because they were only paid for the hours worked and they took home less than they would have under normal circumstances.

Premier and Minister of Finance Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1), in a statement today, December 29, 2021, said he was pleased to inform the public that the Board of Directors of the BVIPA has approved one year of increments to be paid to all its employees upon successful completion of their performance appraisal by the first quarter of 2022.

In addition, according to the Premier, all Port employees whose hours were reduced in 2020 due to the impact of COVID-19, will receive a "one-off" ex-gratia payment from the BVIPA.

"I am glad to have the workers at the BVIPA recognised for their invaluable service. This has been made possible due to your Government's many successful policies that significantly contributed to the positive surge being experienced in our economy despite the ongoing challenges created by COVID-19. We thank the staff of the BVIPA for their hard work and continued dedication to the Authority during the pandemic, which is ongoing," Hon Fahie stated.

In 2021, the BVIPA also held off on increasing certain critical port fees, which also meant a loss of revenue for the statutory body.

Premier and Minister of Finance Hon Andrew A. Fahie, in a statement today, December 29, 2021, said he was pleased to inform the public that the Board of Directors of the BVIPA has approved one year of increments to be paid to all its employees upon successful completion of their performance appraisal by the first quarter of 2022.