Local News
Premier Urges Public Engagement with Virgin Islands Crown Land Policy
Premier and Minister of Finance, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, is calling on residents to actively participate in the ongoing public discussion surrounding the Virgin Islands Crown Land Policy.
Highlighting the importance of preserving land for public interest and ensuring accessibility to young individuals and families, Honourable Wheatley emphasized the significance of owning a part of their Virgin Islands legacy and creating generational wealth. He urged everyone to familiarize themselves with the policy and submit their ideas and concerns.
The policy encompasses various aspects, including the history of Crown Lands, the first-time homeownership program, commercial and agricultural land leases, and Crown Land application criteria.
Premier Wheatley emphasized the crucial role of Virgin Islanders in shaping the final framework for managing Crown lands, encouraging them to provide feedback and make their opinions heard.
The policy aims to protect the natural environment for present and future generations while conserving biodiversity and ecosystem integrity, particularly in regards to developments such as reclamations, docks, jetties, barge ramps, and seabed development.
Public consultations have already taken place in Anegada, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, West End, Tortola, and Road Town. Further meetings with residents of the East End/Long Look Community are planned for a later date.
The Virgin Islands Crown Land Policy can be accessed on the Government of the Virgin Islands portal at bvi.gov.vg. Residents are encouraged to provide their feedback via email to nrl@gov.vg.
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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