Local News
Virgin Islanders Urged to Make Their Voices Heard in Constitutional Review
Former Virgin Islands legislator Carvin Malone, spokesperson for the One Virgin Islands Agenda, has called on Virgin Islanders to actively participate and voice their opinions in the ongoing review of the Constitutional arrangement between the United Kingdom (UK) and the British Virgin Islands (BVI).
This appeal comes as the UK House of Commons’ Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee (PACAC) nears the end of public consultations on the appropriateness of the current constitutional arrangements for UK Overseas Territories (OTs) in the 21st century.
The PACAC’s deadline for public submissions of evidence on several issues regarding the UK’s Constitutional relationship with the OTs is set for 5 pm London Time on Monday, September 4, 2023. Currently, the BVI is awaiting the report of the Constitutional Review Commission, which will inform the BVI Government representatives’ position during negotiations with UK Government officials to establish a new Constitutional arrangement to replace the existing Virgin Islands Constitution Order 2007.
During a recent One Virgin Islands Agenda Open Forum radio broadcast, Mr. Malone emphasized the need for Virgin Islanders to take personal responsibility for educating themselves on the relevant issues and processes involved in revising the Constitution and advancing the BVI’s political status. He warned that failing to participate in the decision-making process could lead to decisions being made for them by others, with potentially regrettable consequences.
Mr. Malone highlighted the importance of active participation, stating, “Let us compile our responses on these questions so that when the Government writes to the UK on these particular questions, as they should, then it would be one that comes from the bowels of the people and the mindset of the people.”
The UK PACAC is seeking public comments on various questions, including the satisfaction and appropriateness of the current constitutional arrangements for the Overseas Territories in the 21st century, the engagement of the UK Civil Service with the OTs, the representation of the OTs within different departments across Whitehall, and the protection of the rights and interests of British Overseas Citizens.
Virgin Islanders are encouraged to visit the PACAC’s website for more information on the call for evidence and to make submissions on the questions related to the appropriateness of the current constitutional arrangements for UK’s OTs in the 21st century.
The One Virgin Islands Agenda is a nonpartisan movement organized by concerned Virgin Islanders, focused on encouraging residents to actively participate and learn about the Constitutional Review process. The movement aims to simplify and promote the participation of residents in shaping the future of the BVI.
Virgin Islanders are urged to seize this opportunity to have their say and actively contribute to the ongoing review of the Constitutional arrangement, ensuring that their voices are heard and their interests are represented in the decision-making process.
Education
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
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