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National Security Council Addresses Recent Shooting Incident
In response to the recent shooting incident that occurred on Friday, March 22, the National Security Council (NSC) chaired by the Governor and comprising key members including the Premier, the Minister for Communication and Works, the Attorney General and the Commissioner of Police convened today, March 25, to address the matter and the discuss progress of the ongoing investigation.
During the meeting, the Commissioner of Police provided updates on the condition of the victim, Jeron Romney. Additionally, the Commissioner addressed recent media reports regarding gunshots heard in the area of Huntum’s Ghut on the evenings of March 23rd and 24th, 2024. However, investigations thus far have not confirmed the nature of these incidents.
The NSC committed to remaining informed on these matters and scheduled a follow-up discussion later in the week. Expressing gratitude, the NSC thanked community members who have come forward to assist the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force with the investigation and urged continued support from all communities throughout the Territory.
Specifically, the NSC encouraged anyone who had recent contact with Mr. Romney to reach out to Crime Stoppers and the confidential hotline at 800-8477 [TIPS] and 368-9339. Emphasising the importance of maintaining calm, the NSC called for peace and stability in the Territory.
Furthermore, the NSC reiterated its dedication to implementing measures and relevant legislation to address this and other unresolved crimes. The Council plays a crucial role in addressing internal security matters and significant security developments in the Territory, including instances of significant criminal activity.
As investigations continue and efforts to ensure the safety and security of residents progress, the NSC remains vigilant and committed to upholding the well-being of the British Virgin Islands community.
The National Security Council will continue to monitor the situation closely and take necessary actions to maintain law and order throughout the Territory.
The Crown Lands Management Bill, recently introduced by the Virgin Islands government, under the leadership of the Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, Premier and Minister of Finance, is set to transform the utilisation and safeguarding of land resources for the future.
“At the core of this bill lies a commitment to transparency and the interests of the community,” declared Premier Wheatley. “We have carefully crafted these regulations to reflect our historical context, current challenges, and aspirations for the future.”
The bill sets out strict criteria and processes for the disposal and leasing of Crown Lands, ensuring decisions are made transparently and in the best interest of the community. Key components of the legislation include sustainability, affordability, suitability for development, eligibility criteria and responsible management.
Furthermore, the bill mandates the establishment of a comprehensive Land Use Plan, a strategic tool to guide future land allocation and mitigate the adverse impacts of unsuitable development.
Dr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, echoed Premier Wheatley’s sentiments, urging residents to familiarise themselves with the bill’s contents.
“The Virgin Islands Crown Lands Management Bill is crucial in shaping our collective future,” remarked Dr. Smith-Berkeley. “It is imperative for every member of our community to engage with this legislation, as it holds the key to our development and prosperity.”
The bill, which governs the administration, management, development, and use of all Crown lands, has already garnered attention and anticipation among residents. To encourage public participation, the government has made the bill accessible on the official Government of the Virgin Islands website, bvi.gov.vg, inviting feedback and comments from citizens.
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Virgin Islands Responds to Flash Flood Emergency: Governor Pruce Leads Recovery Efforts
As the Virgin Islands grapples with the aftermath of a devastating trough that swept through the region on May 7 and 8, damage assessments have commenced as part of the emergency response efforts.
The event, characterised by heavy rainfall, dumped over 5 inches of rain on Road Town and approximately 9 inches on Virgin Gorda, triggering flash floods and widespread disruption.
His Excellency, Governor Daniel Pruce, led a meeting on May 8 with leaders from key responding agencies, including the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, Ministry of Health and Social Development, BVI Ports Authority, BVI Electricity Corporation, and the Public Works Department. The meeting aimed to discuss preliminary impacts and outline next steps in the recovery process.
Governor Pruce expressed gratitude that no lives were lost and no injuries were reported during the flash flood event. He underscored the importance of community support for those affected, emphasizing the need to assist individuals in recovering belongings and rebuilding businesses.
Director of Disaster Management, Mr. Jasen Penn, highlighted the sudden and dangerous nature of flash flooding, stressing the importance of preparedness and mitigation efforts across the Territory. While the presence of a trough had been forecasted by the Antigua Met Office, the extent of rainfall was not fully understood until the event was underway.
Mr. Penn expressed appreciation for the public’s cooperation and adherence to safety measures, such as school closures and office hour adjustments, which helped ensure overall safety during the event.
As the Territory prepares for the upcoming hurricane season starting on June 1, residents are reminded of the importance of readiness for storms, floods, and other emergencies. Resources and tools for emergency preparedness, including family plan templates, storm tracking maps, emergency supplies checklists, and shelter lists, are available at www.bviddm.com.
In celebration of the 70th Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is gearing up to launch a special commemorative license plate, as announced by the Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer.
Rymer expressed the significance of this milestone, stating, “To mark this historic occasion, we will be introducing a limited-edition commemorative license plate that embodies the spirit of freedom and pays homage to our remarkable journey.”
The commemorative license plate not only signifies a significant historical moment but also serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of the Territory’s people, Rymer highlighted.
Acting Commissioner at the DMV, Mr. Gregory Skelton, underscored the importance of creating a lasting keepsake for the 70th Emancipation Celebration. “Our team at DMV is honoured to contribute to this historic event with a Commemorative License Plate, designed to be cherished for years to come,” Skelton stated.
Residents are invited to participate in this initiative through a Design Competition, running until June 7, as announced by Skelton. Designs, featuring the inscription “Virgin Islands” at the top and “Natures Little Secret” at the bottom, can be submitted via email to infodmv@gov.vg or directly to the department.
Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works, lauded the timely initiative by the DMV, highlighting its role in preserving the Territory’s history and traditions while fostering unity and celebrating diversity in the community.
Smith-Maduro remarked, “Together, we can uphold the spirit of emancipation as we ‘Celebrate our Freedom, Live in Unity’ during the 70th BVI Festival.”
Amidst these celebrations, the Department of Motor Vehicles remains committed to providing efficient and precise services in vehicle licensing matters, ensuring compliance with the road traffic legislation of the Territory.
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