Local News
Anegada Airport To Reopen After Fire Truck Return:s Minister Rymer Apologises for the Inconvenience
The Auguste George Airport will officially reopen tomorrow, December 6, 2023, following the return of the required fire truck that led to its abrupt closure on December 2.
The closure had raised serious concerns among the island’s residents about their safety and well-being, prompting a resident to describe the situation as a threat that had left them feeling the “Cinderella effects.”
The absence of the essential safety measures had far-reaching consequences, with a resident recounting a distressing incident involving a medical emergency. “There was a medical emergency, and imagine a seriously ill person needed to be medevaced. It took ten times longer than the already lengthy wait for a medevac,” the resident explained, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Residents expressed their frustration, with one emphasizing, “Nothing about this can be right,” and others suggesting that drastic measures, such as shutting down the island and petitioning the UK and the Government, might be necessary for better treatment.
In a statement released on December 5, Minister for Communications and Works, Hon. Kye Rymer addressed the concerns of the residents, acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the unintentional delay. He stated, “Your safety and well-being have been our top priorities throughout this process.” Minister Rymer expressed sincere apologies for any disruption caused and assured residents that every effort had been made to expedite the delivery of the fire truck to minimize further inconvenience.
Despite the delay, Minister Rymer emphasised that the safety of the residents was never compromised. Immediate measures were taken to prioritise medical assistance and evacuation for the Anegadians, demonstrating the government’s commitment to the well-being of the community.
Expressing gratitude for the understanding and patience shown by the residents during this transitional period, Minister Rymer stated, “Your concerns are our concerns, and we are committed to addressing them promptly.” He thanked the residents for their unwavering patience, understanding, and solidarity as the government works to restore normalcy.
As Anegada Airport reopens its doors, Minister Rymer’s assurance and commitment to the safety and concerns of the residents provide a glimmer of hope for the islanders who have weathered the challenges brought about by the temporary closure.
Meanwhile, the Taddy Bay Airport at Virgin Gorda continues to operate, as confirmed by Kurt Manal, Managing Director of the BVI Airport Authority.”
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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