Local News
Department of Immigration Earns ‘Most Improved’ Title
The Department of Immigration has been awarded the prestigious title of ‘Most Improved Department’ by the RATEUS platform, as highlighted in the latest edition of the Public Service Customer Service Newsletter.
The RATEUS platform, a comprehensive tool for evaluating government service delivery, has recognized the Department of Immigration for its significant strides in efficiency, transparency, and customer satisfaction.
Acting Chief Immigration Officer Mrs. Nadia Demming-Hodge expressed her pride in the department’s progress, stating, “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the Department of Immigration’s staff in serving our community with excellence. It is encouraging for staff members to know that their efforts to streamline processes, improve customer service, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism have not gone unnoticed. As we continue to enhance our services, we expect to see even higher levels of satisfaction among the community.”
Several key initiatives have contributed to the Department of Immigration’s commendable progress:
- Enhanced Service Delivery: The department has implemented innovative strategies to streamline immigration processes, reduce wait times, and improve overall service for residents and visitors.
- Transparency and Accountability: New measures have been introduced to ensure that immigration operations are conducted with integrity and fairness, enhancing transparency and accountability.
- Customer Satisfaction: A strong focus on improving the customer experience through better communication, responsiveness, and accessibility has led to increased client satisfaction.
- Training and Development: Significant investment in staff training and development has equipped employees with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles and deliver exceptional service.
Director of Customer Service Kedimone Rubaine lauded the department’s efforts, saying, “The Department of Immigration’s commitment to improving their delivery of customer service is not only admirable but reflects the Government’s strategic customer service plan. I encourage the public to continue to rate their service at the Department to keep these hard-working officers accountable while celebrating their improvement.”
Public Service Transformation Manager Kishann Cupid Braithwaite also praised the department, stating, “The improvement shown by this department is transformation in action. Enhancing the Public Service through customer service is a key priority, and the commitment shown by the officers of the Department of Immigration is a great example of how the Public Service will continually transform for the better.”
The Department of Immigration remains dedicated to providing exceptional customer service to residents and visitors of the Virgin Islands, playing a vital role in the government’s mission to facilitate lawful immigration and ensure border security.
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.
Tola Radio VI 100.5 FM, known as “the people’s radio,” has been off the air for 14 days amidst a legal standoff with Caribbean Cellular Telephone Limited (CCT). Managing Director Floyd P. Burnett, also known as “Heritage,” is urging public support as the station navigates what he describes as a targeted attack on freedom of speech and locally-owned businesses.
Mr. Burnett alleges that despite meeting all payment requirements and deadlines, CCT refused to accept Tola Radio’s payment and later disabled the station’s broadcasting equipment. “They physically touched our equipment and locked them off, despite written legal letters asking and instructing it not to be done,” he stated.
The dispute follows CCT’s October announcement terminating its service agreement with the radio station. CCT clarified that Tola Radio could retain its services if it became a paying customer, but according to Burnett, his payment was rejected without justification.
The controversy escalated when Burnett claimed an attempt was made to have him arrested and charged with attempted murder. “The public was to wake up and hear the radio off along with hearing I was arrested and charged, but God is greater than man!” he said.
Efforts to secure an extension for relocating Tola Radio’s equipment were also denied, Burnett said. Additionally, an urgent injunction filed in the High Court was postponed by a visiting judge until November 22 without hearing any arguments.
The ongoing shutdown has left eight employees without income, caused significant financial losses, and breached client agreements. Burnett criticized government officials for their lack of action, accusing them of failing to address the issue despite the government being a major client of CCT.
“Like most problems facing the BVI, they can’t [find] no way to help us! Even though the government is the tower people’s biggest client,” Burnett remarked.
Burnett is calling on the public to boycott CCT in protest. “Plug out the phone, plug out the chip, don’t pay your bill! We need to make a statement to corporate BVI today!” he urged.
He framed the situation as a broader fight for “freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and freedom of information,” asserting that the attack on Tola Radio sets a dangerous precedent for other local businesses.
Despite the challenges, Burnett assured Tola Radio’s listeners and partners that the station will resume broadcasting soon. “We will be back on air shortly, hopefully before the day is out,” he promised.
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