Local News
BVI Leads Charge for Small Island Sustainability: Latin American Allies Rally at ECLAC Meeting
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) emerged as a beacon for the sustainable development aspirations of small island nations, rallying Latin American allies at the 7th Meeting of the Forum of the Countries of Latin America and the Caribbean on Sustainable Development in Santiago, Chile.
With the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) looming on the horizon in Antigua and Barbuda, the BVI government, led by Special Envoy Mr. Benito Wheatley, seized the opportunity to spotlight the unique challenges faced by the 13 Associate Members of UN ECLAC nestled in the Caribbean.
At the heart of Mr. Wheatley’s impassioned plea was a call for global recognition and support for the Associate Members’ relentless pursuit of sustainable development and climate resilience. Addressing the panel, moderated by Mrs. Diane Quarless of the ECLAC Caribbean Subregional Headquarters, Mr. Wheatley emphasised, “The Associate Members remain undeterred in our quest for support… Together, we will strive to ensure they are not left behind.”
Acknowledging the pivotal role of international cooperation in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, Mr. Wheatley underscored the pressing need for greater acknowledgment and corresponding assistance for the Associate Members, particularly under the forthcoming SIDS Programme of Action.
The significance of BVI’s advocacy reverberated throughout the conference, culminating in an affirming outcome. In a resounding declaration of support, the Member States of the Forum pledged to recognize the unique challenges and vulnerabilities faced by the Associate Members, committing to their continued inclusion in the work of ECLAC and its subsidiary bodies.
The reverberations of this collective endorsement reverberate far beyond the halls of the Santiago conference. As the SIDS4 conference approaches, the assurance of regional solidarity serves as a powerful catalyst, propelling the BVI and its fellow Associate Members towards a future of sustainable development and resilience.
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.
A stabbing incident that occurred on May 12 at His Majesty’s Prison, resulted in inmate Shakeel Ryan being transported to Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for medical treatment.
Meanwhile, another individual has been apprehended and is currently being questioned at the Road Town Police Station.
Ryan, who is incarcerated for conspiracy to murder, remained hospitalised at the time of publication.
Circumstances surrounding the incident are still unclear, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
The retaining wall at the Social Security-funded homes in Joe’s Hill Manor Estate sustained substantial damage after heavy rains inundated the territory on May 7 and 8, leaving significant damage at multiple sites across the area.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported thus far, but efforts are underway to assess the full extent of the damage and ensure the safety of all affected areas.
In addition to the damage at Joe’s Hill Manor Estate, the torrential rains caused widespread flooding on the streets, with businesses on Flemming Street bearing the brunt of the floodwaters. The situation was compounded by erosion, landslides, and flash flooding on Virgin Gorda, rendering access to North Sound via Valley impassable and posing hazardous conditions for residents.
As a result of the adverse weather conditions, several banks across the region, including Bank of Asia (BVI), CIBC Caribbean, First Bank Virgin Islands, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Popular, Republic Bank (BVI) and VP Bank (BVI), were forced to close their doors.
In a precautionary move to prioritise public safety, all public schools across the territory were closed. However, as of today, May 9, they have reopened, except for Elmore Stoutt High School, which will resume face-to-face sessions on Friday, May 10th, 2024.
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