Above: Nevis (CJ Photo)

By the Caribbean Journal staff

Nevis Premier Vance Amory has appointed Mark Brantley as the island’s new Tourism Minister.

Brantley’s portfolios will also include health, social development, youth and sports, culture and gender affairs.

“We are at a critical moment in the development of Nevis’ tourism and we need renewed leadership to successfully implement our strategy to take advantage of the market opportunities ahead,” said Amory who succeeded Joseph Parry as Premier last week following the Concerned Citizens Movement’s election win. “Nevis is fortunate to have someone of Mark’s caliber and experience to lead the industry in the capacity of Minister of Tourism. Mark is a strong communicator and has a solid understanding of what is required to develop our tourism plant and I have every confidence in his abilities to successfully expand our tourism economy.”

Brantley, who was part of the CCM victory, made a visit to the Nevis Tourism Authority following the vote to meet with CEO John Hanley and staff.

This week, Brantley will reportedly lay out his vision for the industry, along with reviewing the NTA’s work plan for the next 100 days.

Brantley is an attorney by profession. He is the leader of the Opposition in the federal St Kitts and Nevis Parliament.

“I am honored and excited to lead Nevis’ tourism industry, which is vitally important to the people of Nevis and to the economy of our small island destination,” Brantley said.