Local News
‘Greedy Bill’ – Premier Natalio Wheatley Takes Steps To Amend Retirement Legislation
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley on Thursday began taking steps to amend the controversial Retiring Allowances (Legislative Services) Amendment Act, 2021 known as ‘The Greedy Bill’ which gives lawmakers cushy allowances and guaranteed salaries even after they are voted out of office.
On June 29, the Retiring Allowances (Legislative Services) Amendment Bill, 2023 was given its first reading during the Second Sitting of the House of Assembly in Road Town, Tortola.
During this year’s election campaign, Premier Wheatley had promised residents that the legislation, introduced during Andrew Fahie’s administration, would be repealed.
It was Sixth Electoral District Representative and National Democratic Party (NDP) member Myron Walwyn who first revealed the hefty retirement benefits lawmakers were entitled to while campaigning in March and April this year.
This sparked heavy public criticism which moved politicians from various parties to publicly support amending the bill.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is actively searching for three suspects who fled after an attempted home invasion in Cocodella on Monday afternoon.
Officers responded to a report of the incident shortly after 3 p.m. today, December 2. Upon arrival, they encountered four armed individuals. Shots were exchanged during the confrontation, resulting in the arrest of one suspect. The individual is currently in custody at the Road Town Police Station and is assisting with investigations.
The remaining suspects escaped on foot, with one believed to have sustained injuries during the encounter. Despite extensive searches, they have not been located.
The RVIPF has launched a full investigation and is appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-8477 (TIPS) or from overseas at (284) 800-8477. Information can also be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
All tips will be treated with strict confidentiality as authorities work to bring the suspects to justice.
A South African national was charged with manslaughter following a tragic marine collision that claimed the life of 39-year-old Stephen Cross Jr.
Lesley Joubert, 36, was taken into custody by officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) as part of their investigation into the incident. He appeared before the Magistrate’s Court and was granted bail set at $120,000 in cash. Joubert is expected to return to court on Tuesday, 11 February 2025.
The tragic event occurred on the evening of Friday, 22 November, near Saba Rock. Initial reports indicate that a 21-foot rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) collided with a dinghy, causing severe injuries to Mr. Cross, a resident of St. Thomas, USVI.
Cross was rushed to the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic before being transferred to the Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for advanced treatment. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries.
As investigations continue, the authorities have urged members of the public with any information relevant to the case to come forward.
The RVIPF assured the public that comprehensive investigations are underway to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
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