British Virgin Islands Ministry of Finance introduces website to the public

Tortola, BVI -- May 2, 2007 -- The Ministry of Finance has announced its website, www.finance.gov.vg, which will serve to inform public servants and the general public about the services the Ministry provides.

Minister of Finance Honourable Ronnie W. Skelton told the Department of Information and Public Relations that the website will, among other things, provide valuable information on how the Ministry is working to build a more prosperous BVI.

Financial Secretary Mr. Neil Smith said, “The website is aimed at informing the public and the civil service of the Virgin Islands on the activities and expectations of the Ministry of Finance, allowing it to more effectively achieve its goals of prudent fiscal and economic management of the Territory’s resources. Websites are a vital tool for the dissemination of information.”

The site provides information on financial legislation and regulations, budget estimates, and global fiscal and economic issues. The general public and Government employees will also have access to a variety of forms including taxi cab importation exemption applications and employee personal and car loan applications. There is also a Frequently Ask Questions (FAQ) section that provides information on various processes including the tendering and petty contracts process.

The Ministry of Finance serves as the focal point for leadership and policy direction relating to fiscal, economic growth and development of the British Virgin Islands. The Ministry’s primary responsibility is to safeguard and allocate the Government’s resources in accordance with legislative dictates and Executive Council or Ministerial policy to provide goods and services in the most efficient manner.

The Ministry of Finance’s strategic objectives are implemented through its five (5) departments that carry out the operational functions of the Ministry. Her Majesty’s Customs, BVI Post Office, Department of Information Technology, Inland Revenue Department and the Treasury Department. The Ministry also has oversight of the Financial Services Commission and the Development Bank of the Virgin Islands.

The Ministry joins several other Government departments that have introduced websites to the public recently. These include the Immigration Department, Social Development Department, Deputy Governor’s Office and Human Resources Department. The Ministry of Finance site includes links to other Government websites which makes it easy to access relevant information that may not be on the Ministry’s site.