Local News
Virgin Gorda Community Angry Over Ongoing Water Disruption
Says Government Is Making Conflicting Statements Over Water Disruption Caused By Sargassum Seaweed At Handsome Bay
Residents and the business community of Virgin Gorda are extremely angry over the continued water disruption caused by sargassum seaweed at Handsome Bay after being assured by the Ministry of Communications and Works early this month that a permanent solution was being sought.
The Ministry of Communications and Works and the Handsome Bay water company, Aqua Design, both acknowledged that due to the overwhelming amount of sargassum seaweed, the pre-filtration system of the open sea intake was partially blocked disrupting the water distribution level in The Valley.
Earlier this month, Minister Kye Rymer apologised for the inconvenience caused by the reduced water supply and assured residents that a long-term solution would be implemented in the upcoming months.
The Ministry also stated that plant operators would continue to monitor the intake condition and make necessary adjustments.
However, the water woes have persisted, causing frustration within the entire community. Residents have reported water disruptions occurring twice daily, from noon to 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. to 5 a.m.
An angry resident, who requested anonymity, expressed disappointment in the lack of transparency from the sewerage department and water plant.
“So the water and Sewerage Department don’t have enough respect for the public to tell us what the issues are. We are the ones affected and we have a right to know what’s happening,” a frustrated resident, who asked to remain anonymous, told JTV. “And if the Director and the Minister both touting that the water situation has been rectified then why water off for most of the day.”
Plant production had to be reduced to maintain adequate pressure to the equipment. Failure to maintain over 30 psi to the equipment could result in catastrophic equipment failure.
Another expressed their frustration, stating that “water shuts off twice a day. Some areas now water for over a week. At-Large members (are) quiet, conflicting answers from (the) government.”
The sentiment that the water issues in Virgin Gorda are being disregarded by those in positions of authority is shared by both residents and business owners in The Valley.
Minister of Natural Resources, Labour and Immigration Vincent Wheatley serves as the Ninth District Representative, while At-Large members elected in the 2023 general elections are Deputy Premier Lorna Smith, Education Minister Sharie deCastro, Opposition Leader Ronnie Skelton and Stacy Mather.
“I bet At-Large members don’t even have a clue. Does anyone really care? I’m just disgusted,” JTV was told.
There was some change when the tide shifted the sargassum seaweed last weekend, allowing for increased plant production.
In an inspiring act of generosity, Russ Roschman, an avid animal lover, marked his birthday in an extraordinary way—by dedicating it to the furry residents of the BVI Humane Society. Instead of accepting gifts, Roschman launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised an impressive $2,500 for the shelter.
Roschman spent the day with the shelter’s animals, earning the gratitude of staff and the community alike. The funds raised will be directed toward the running costs of the current shelter, providing vital resources to care for the animals.
The BVI Humane Society, in a heartfelt post, expressed their appreciation, calling Roschman an “amazing animal lover” and extending a “big furball thanks” for his kindness.
This act of selflessness shines a light on the ongoing needs of shelters like the BVI Humane Society, which rely on donations and community support to provide essential care for animals in need. Roschman’s gesture is a reminder of the impact individuals can make, one paw at a time.
The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, signed into law by Governor Daniel Pruce on November 1, introduces significant changes to the Territory’s immigration policies. Among the most notable amendments is the doubling of the residency requirement for individuals seeking Belonger status, extending the period from ten to twenty years.
The legislation also establishes an Immigration Appeals Board to handle challenges and disputes, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the transparency and accountability of the immigration process. Premier Natalio Wheatley described the amendments as a step forward in refining the system. “We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and equitab
Governor Daniel Pruce
le,” the Premier said in a statement.
While the new law introduces robust measures to regulate and manage immigration, it has drawn mixed reactions. One key point of contention is the lack of new pathways for children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. Critics argue that this omission leaves a gap in addressing a demographic often caught in legal limbo.
The amended law also tasks a newly created Quota Setting Committee with advising the Board of Immigration on annual quotas for residence and Belonger certificates. This ensures that quotas align with the Territory’s capacity and strategic objectives.
However, the law is not yet in effect. It will commence on a date to be announced by the Premier in the official Gazette. Applications submitted before this date will be processed under the previous legal framework, providing clarity for those already in the system.
The government has framed these changes as part of its broader strategy to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for the Virgin Islands. “These amendments are designed to support the Territory’s long-term goals while maintaining fairness for all residents,” a government statement emphasised.
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.
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
-
Crime/Police5 days agoTwo Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
-
Crime/Police2 weeks agoShots Fired Near ESHS: Man Injured, High School Goes Into Lockdown
-
Crime/Police1 week agoK’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
-
Local News5 days agoTola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
-
Local News2 weeks agoVirgin Islands Coach Earns Bodybuilding PRO Card in The Bahamas
-
Entertainment2 weeks agoTortola Welcomes Exclusive Japanese Dining at 1748 Sushi Bar
-
Local News2 weeks agoTAG and CIBC Caribbean Host Second Annual Season of Giving Sales Event
-
Local News23 hours agoVirgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status