For sure the government is a big employer, especially of BVIlanders. Some of them are hard-working teachers, medical folk and decent civil servants. Others not so much. Around town you see government vehicles used by parents to ferry their kids to and from school, during working hours. And for such a small place, there are an awful lot of permanent secretaries, deputies, assistants, PR folks, etc. With far less income, it’s hard to see how belt tightening is avoided. Will the British really want to fund it? Will anyone lend money for that?

Just before Irma, it looked like some roosters might be coming home to roost, with audits done, financials demanded, etc. For example, it came to light that the government owed many millions in back electric bills, which they were unable to pay. The British had been demanding that financial reserves be established, with much pushback. We’ll see if they exist.

Another issue is who will pay to rebuild private homes. A lot of folk seem to think it is the government’s responsibility. Not sure where that money would come from.

However, there is income: local and alien property owners rebuilding their properties with savings and insurance settlements. There is a lot of construction and boat repair work. Anyone with skills, or willing and able to acquire them, will have work for a long time.