Premier thanks St George's area businesses for their tourism role

Premier Michael Dunkley visited several areas in St George’s to get an update on the Old Town now that the summer season is underway.

The Premier used last Thursday’s visit to express his support and appreciation to the area retailers and businesses who are doing their part to ensure that St George’s is seen as a viable visitor attraction.

Some of the businesses visited by the Premier last week included, Sweet Saak Bakery, which recently won a Best of Bermuda Award, Belcario Thomas’ Tobacco Bay visitor venue, and the St George’s World Heritage Centre. Premier Dunkley also took the opportunity to visit the Sylvia Richardson Seniors Home and meet with the care takers at the facility as well as chat with the Mayor of St George’s, Garth Rothwell, to get an update on the progress of the proposed yacht marina for the East End.

Premier Dunkley said: “There is a tremendous amount of pride and resilience among the retailers and business owners in St George’s, and I thought it was important to visit them to not only thank them for their dedication and commitment, but to let them know that this Government remains committed to St George’s.

“There are some innovative things taking place also, like the beach concession at Tobacco Bay. I was pleased to see what Belcario Thomas was doing with the venue. He has a unique vision and he shared with me some additional thoughts he had for the venue, which would certainly enhance the visitor experience.

“I also had a chance to receive an update from Mayor Rothwell regarding the proposed plans for the yacht marina. Things seem to be progressing and it’s hoped that the marina will be up and running next year. We anticipate that this will go a long way towards reviving St. George’s and ensuring that it is a vibrant part of our overall tourism product.”

The Premier’s visit was a follow up from a visit by the Minister of Home Affairs, Sen. Michael Fahy earlier this year.

Earlier this year the Corporation of St George’s received a $750,000 Government grant to assist in making upgrades within the Old Town in advance of the visitor season.

 Joining the Premier last week was the Acting Minister of Home Affairs, R. Wayne Scott, the Minister of Health, Seniors and the Environment, Jeanne Atherden, area MPs Nandi Outerbridge and Kenneth Bascome and Mayor Rothwell.