Dr Pickering suggested to residents at a recent political rally that while he was in government, plans were being explored to build a youth empowerment centre in Virgin Gorda.

The former legislator promised to reveal more details at a later date during his campaign, but told residents: “When I’m elected to the next House of Assembly as an At-Large candidate and I represent the North Sound, I am going to ensure that we build a first-class youth centre, here and there, in the Valley.”

Dr Pickering said he knows persons who are ready and willing to do the construction but said residents only need to ensure they work along with them.

“You play a role … by electing persons who have the ability to get things done,” Dr Pickering told residents. “That is what we are talking about when we speak about resetting our thinking.”

While telling residents they should see investors as friends instead of enemies, the former legislator noted that relationships need to be built to enhance the needs of both parties.

In the meantime, Dr Pickering urged voters to turn out at the upcoming elections, arguing that if they do not show up at the polls, they have no right to be complaining or criticising anyone afterwards.

“It doesn’t mean just going out to vote. It means choosing persons who you know to have the ability, to have the credibility, [and] who has the integrity to lead this country through the most difficult time that it is going to face,” Dr Pickering said.