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 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.
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.
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
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