Local News
Premier Natalio Wheatley Extends Condolences To The Family Of Registrar of Shipping Ronald Donovan
Premier Natalio Wheatley has extended heartfelt condolences to the family members, friends, and colleagues of Registrar of Shipping Ronald Donovan who recently passed away.
“I have the sad task of offering condolences to the family members, friends and colleagues of the Registrar of Shipping, Mr. Ronald Donovan, who passed over the weekend,” the Premier shared during a presentation in the at the Third Sitting of the First Session of the Fifth House of Assembly on September 12.
Donovan held one of the longest active service records across the administrations of the Red Ensign British flags. Clients of the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry in Miami, London, and various global locations recognised Ronald by name and eagerly greeted him during their visits. This was a testament to his industry presence, warm personality, and sense of humor, the Premier pointed out.
“Of the staff members present here today, and as a matter of fact, of the staff members currently at the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry, Mr. Donovan has been one of the longest continuous serving members of the organisation. Mr. Donovan was the Registrar for more than 17 years, even preceding the time of the function of the Registry becoming a Government department. He served for several years at the Financial Services Commission prior to the services being transferred.”
The Finance Minister said Donovan was “confident in his role, knowledgeable and experienced at his craft and a champion for the Shipping Registry’s cause. Madam Speaker, the process that we are undertaking here today, Mr. Donovan was passionate to see it through. He actually participated in a presentation to Government on this very same matter almost a week to this day – a participation where he eloquently made his contribution. And if you knew Mr. Donovan, you would know what I mean about eloquent contribution.”
Ronald’s presence extended beyond the British Virgin Islands, as he was well-known throughout the Red Ensign Group of flags. His absence from any group event worldwide would prompt inquiries about his well-being.
Upon learning the news, Richard Pellew of the UK Maritime and Coast Guard Agency (MCA), expressed his sadness and described Donovan as the elder statesman and pivotal member of the Red Ensign Group (REG) family.
In addition to his professional achievements, Donovan actively participated in the Carrot Bay community and District 1 activities. His support and guidance were sought after by candidates in that District, as his endorsement often led to success.
Education
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
Dr Kedrick Pickering, former legislator and renowned obstetrician, has achieved international recognition with the release of his book, Walk in Faith & Medicine: Daily Lessons & Insights from a Doctor’s Handwritten Journal. Published on December 12, the 139-page Kindle edition has swiftly become the number one New Release in Obstetrics & Gynaecology on Amazon, earning Dr Pickering a place among Amazon’s International Best Sellers.
Walk in Faith & Medicine provides readers with a deeply personal account of Dr Pickering’s tenure as the only Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in the British Virgin Islands for nearly three decades. The book intricately weaves his medical experiences with his spiritual reflections, offering profound insights into the challenges of practising medicine in a setting where resources were often limited, but faith and resilience were abundant.
Through heartfelt anecdotes, Dr Pickering recounts the joys and struggles of his career, from the miracle of delivering life under difficult circumstances to the strength he found in spirituality when faced with adversity. Each chapter sheds light on the delicate balance between clinical expertise and moral contemplation.
The book’s release has received widespread acclaim, resonating with audiences in both medical and spiritual communities. Its success highlights Dr Pickering’s unique ability to capture the human side of healthcare while addressing universal themes of faith and hope.
Walk in Faith & Medicine is available exclusively as a Kindle edition and is already being hailed as an inspirational must-read.
The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) brought smiles to the faces of over 100 children in the British Virgin Islands with a generous donation of Christmas gifts. The initiative, held on December 16, was a collaborative effort between the FCCA, the Government of the Virgin Islands, and the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP).
The festivities took place at YEP Headquarters in East End, where children were treated to a festive celebration. Staff from the MSC Virtuosa Cruise Ship donned Santa Claus and other character costumes, adding to the magic of the occasion. The event also received sponsorship from Diamond International.
Premier and Minister of Finance Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley expressed his gratitude for the FCCA’s ongoing commitment to the Virgin Islands community. “The leadership of the FCCA is a thoughtful group of individuals. For more than two decades, their gift-giving has brought smiles and filled hearts with joy and hope during this special time of year,” said Premier Wheatley. “On behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands, I extend our sincere thanks to the FCCA and their co-sponsors for their generosity.”
Minister for Ports Hon. Kye M. Rymer highlighted the FCCA’s enduring partnership with the territory. “Their commitment to gift-giving for over 20 years deserves our acknowledgment,” said Rymer. He also commended the BVI Ports Authority for its collaboration with the FCCA in supporting such initiatives.
Director of YEP Hon. Stacy Mather shared his appreciation for the FCCA’s efforts. “This marks our second time receiving gifts from this initiative. We are incredibly fortunate and grateful for this generosity,” he said. “Thanks to the kindness of FCCA, Diamond International, and others, our Christmas celebrations begin a little earlier.”
The event was moderated by Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, Ms. Haley Trott, and attended by Junior Minister for Tourism Hon. Luce Hodge-Smith, Deputy Director of YEP Ms. Bianca Dougan, and other community leaders.
As the festive season brings increased consumer activity, the British Virgin Islands Bank Association (BVIBA) has issued a stern reminder to merchants across the territory regarding compliance with card transaction policies.
The association warns that imposing minimum spending requirements or charging additional fees for card payments is not only against their merchant agreements but also violates regulations established by major payment networks, VISA and Mastercard.
The advisory, issued on Wednesday, December 18, warns that merchants engaging in these practices are in breach of their contractual obligations with their respective financial institutions. “We request that all merchants immediately cease these practices to ensure compliance,” the statement read.
The BVIBA comprises several prominent financial institutions, including Bank of Asia (BVI) Limited, CIBC Caribbean, FirstBank PR, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Popular, Republic Bank (BVI) Limited, and VP Bank (BVI) Limited.
For inquiries or guidance on compliance, the BVIBA advises merchants to contact their respective banks promptly.
Former Legislator Dr Kedrick Pickering Becomes International Best-Selling Author with New Book
FCCA Spreads Holiday Cheer in the British Virgin Islands with Christmas Gift Donation
BVI Bank Association Warns Merchants Against Card Transaction Violations
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