Fraser touts D3 roadworks as benefit of joining government

Fraser

Deputy Premier and Third District Representative Julian Fraser has pointed to ongoing roadworks in his district as one of the benefits of his decision to join the government.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley on Friday, February 28, Fraser was asked about crossing the political aisle and what he had gained from that move. In response, he highlighted the visible developments in his district.

“When’s the last time you’ve been in District Three?” Fraser asked. “District Three is booming. There are things happening all the time.”

He acknowledged that more work remains but emphasized that progress is underway.

“There’s more to come. I joined the government last year and, of course, the budget address was already made, and we weren’t factored in as we should have been in the budget, but there are still things happening,” Fraser stated.

Fraser also credited Premier Wheatley for initiating certain projects in the district.

“He’s the one who brought some initiatives to me in my district, so he knows that we have to get things done there,” he said.

Since Fraser’s appointment as Deputy Premier in October 2024, roadworks have commenced in various parts of the district, particularly in Sea Cow’s Bay, where projects are ongoing.

He described his decision to join the administration as a proactive step toward addressing longstanding issues in his constituency, including water supply.

Fraser’s appointment followed the dismissal of former Deputy Premier Lorna Smith. Premier Wheatley explained at the time that Smith was removed due to uncertainty over her continued support for his administration as a no-confidence vote loomed in the House of Assembly.

While Wheatley has since taken over the Financial Services portfolio, Fraser now oversees the Ministry for Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change.

Addressing his ministerial responsibilities at the press conference, Fraser explained that his portfolio is intentionally small to allow him to support the broader government agenda.

“If you notice, my portfolio is a small one, and it’s small for a reason. I want to make sure that his agenda gets carried on and that goes across the entire government,” he stated.

“And if that doesn’t happen, then my being here is not purposeful,” he added.