Premier and Minister of Finance Andrew Fahie made that announcement on Tuesday while delivering his Budget Address for the upcoming 2020 fiscal year.

“It is anticipated that we will be able to secure donor funding for this vital project during this budget year,” Fahie said.

Libraries to receive attention

In the meantime, Premier Fahie said libraries territory-wide will be given some attention next financial year.

“Looking forward to 2020, your government recognises the importance of satisfying the informational, educational, cultural and historical needs of the public. The Library Services Department is, therefore, looking forward to the reopening of its branches on Virgin Gorda, East End and Anegada with upgraded services,” the Premier said.

He continued: “We expect to provide a combination of traditional library services to the public, as well as utilising the latest library technology available which would include the use of artificial intelligence.”

“Building a knowledge-based society has to start from early, and education must be relevant to the BVI context. That is why your government will ensure that our young people, from as early as pre-school age, are taught about tourism so that they are prepared to thrive in their BVI. We will take steps to have an appropriate curriculum developed in time for the September 2020 school year,” the Premier further said.