Montserrat borders to remain closed

Premier Joseph Farell revealed today at a media conference that Montserrat will not be participating in the Caribbean Community’s (CARICOM) travel bubble.

Farrell said, “Montserrat and some other countries are not ready to be part of the bubble for various logistical reasons, including the risk to which our [citizens] might be exposed to persons coming into the bubble from high-risk countries."

He also noted, “Montserrat will continue to analyze the risk and join the bubble when it is safe to do so." Farrell has also asked tourism operators to remain patient.

“I wish to assure the industry that their business is an integral part of the island’s economy," Farrell added.

The training of hospitality workers is ongoing and the government will create a tourism advisory group to examine best practices for reopening.

For now, the government will provide subsidized airfares for passengers traveling between Montserrat and Antigua.

The subsidy being implemented since the inter-island ferry service has been withdrawn due to low passenger demand. The government will spend EC$150 for a one-way ticket and EC$300 for return. The minimum seat guarantee of EC$18,000 also remains in effect.