Local News
Vijay Bissoondutt Awarded Honorary MBE for Transforming Animal Welfare in the BVI
In a momentous Investiture ceremony held at Government House on September 5, Mr Manog Bissoondutt MBE, affectionately known as ‘Vijay’, was recognized for his outstanding contributions to animal welfare as the Shelter Manager of the BVI’s Humane Society.
Vijay’s unwavering dedication and compassionate efforts have earned him the prestigious Honorary MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire).
Governor John Rankin CMG, who presided over the ceremony, acknowledged the challenges faced by shelter managers. “Running the shelter can be a selfless task, sometimes heart-breaking and sometimes frustrating,” Governor Rankin empathized. “Much of the work is not carried out in the limelight and is not always realized or recognized. But through his daily, weekly, and yearly commitment, for his passion and for making a difference for many hundreds of animals who have gone on to live better lives, he is deserving of reward and recognition.”
Vijay, known for his deep love and empathy for animals, has dedicated his life to the welfare and protection of vulnerable creatures in the British Virgin Islands. His tireless efforts have not only saved numerous lives but have also inspired a community of animal lovers to rally behind the cause.
Under Vijay’s exceptional leadership, the BVI Humane Society has achieved remarkable milestones. Through successful adoption drives, educational outreach programs, and the implementation of innovative animal care practices, the shelter has witnessed a significant improvement in the lives of countless animals. Vijay’s unwavering commitment has provided hope and a second chance to creatures that were once abandoned or neglected.
Expressing his gratitude for the honor bestowed upon him, Vijay dedicated the award to the entire team at the BVI Humane Society. “I am truly humbled and honored to receive this recognition,” Vijay humbly stated. “I share this award with my dedicated colleagues at the Humane Society, without whom none of this would have been possible. Together, we will continue our mission to protect and care for animals in need.”
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Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
Tola Radio VI 100.5 FM, known as “the people’s radio,” has been off the air for 14 days amidst a legal standoff with Caribbean Cellular Telephone Limited (CCT). Managing Director Floyd P. Burnett, also known as “Heritage,” is urging public support as the station navigates what he describes as a targeted attack on freedom of speech and locally-owned businesses.
Mr. Burnett alleges that despite meeting all payment requirements and deadlines, CCT refused to accept Tola Radio’s payment and later disabled the station’s broadcasting equipment. “They physically touched our equipment and locked them off, despite written legal letters asking and instructing it not to be done,” he stated.
The dispute follows CCT’s October announcement terminating its service agreement with the radio station. CCT clarified that Tola Radio could retain its services if it became a paying customer, but according to Burnett, his payment was rejected without justification.
The controversy escalated when Burnett claimed an attempt was made to have him arrested and charged with attempted murder. “The public was to wake up and hear the radio off along with hearing I was arrested and charged, but God is greater than man!” he said.
Efforts to secure an extension for relocating Tola Radio’s equipment were also denied, Burnett said. Additionally, an urgent injunction filed in the High Court was postponed by a visiting judge until November 22 without hearing any arguments.
The ongoing shutdown has left eight employees without income, caused significant financial losses, and breached client agreements. Burnett criticized government officials for their lack of action, accusing them of failing to address the issue despite the government being a major client of CCT.
“Like most problems facing the BVI, they can’t [find] no way to help us! Even though the government is the tower people’s biggest client,” Burnett remarked.
Burnett is calling on the public to boycott CCT in protest. “Plug out the phone, plug out the chip, don’t pay your bill! We need to make a statement to corporate BVI today!” he urged.
He framed the situation as a broader fight for “freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and freedom of information,” asserting that the attack on Tola Radio sets a dangerous precedent for other local businesses.
Despite the challenges, Burnett assured Tola Radio’s listeners and partners that the station will resume broadcasting soon. “We will be back on air shortly, hopefully before the day is out,” he promised.
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