Local News
Dismissed Deputy Premier Lorna Smith Notified of Removal via Letter from Premier
Dismissed Deputy Premier Lorna Smith OBE stated that she was notified of her removal from the government via a letter on Tuesday morning, October 23, from Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley.
In a statement to the media regarding her upcoming press conference, she said, “At approximately 8:00 a.m. this morning, I received a letter from the Hon Premier stating he requested that His
Excellency the Governor revoke my appointment as Deputy Premier and Minister of Financial Services, Labour and Trade.”
In a virtual statement on Tuesday morning, the Premier thanked Smith for her service, adding, “I do so with a heavy heart. She did not give me the confidence that she would remain with my administration for the duration of this term.”
Former Virgin Islands Party (VIP) member and Third District representative Julian Fraser has now taken on the role of Deputy Premier. Fraser remains the chairman of the Progressives United party but has aligned himself with the Virgin Islands Party, where he was a longtime member.
Governor David Pruce signed the instruments of appointment on Tuesday, and Fraser was officially sworn in.
The Premier emphasised that “this is a necessary change to the composition of the government that provides my administration with political stability and a wealth of knowledge and experience which will serve us well over the course of the remainder of this House of Assembly. Political stability is critical at this time to ensure we finalise the completion of governance reforms and effectively address the recommendations of the mutual evaluation report.”
Smith, who won the Territorial-At-Large vote for the National Democratic Party (NDP) in the April 2023 general elections, had previously switched her allegiance to assist the ruling VIP in forming a government. She also held the portfolio for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade.
Having resigned from the NDP, the former first lady is now an independent opposition member.
A man believed to be mentally challenged was apprehended earlier today for allegedly breaking and entering. While it is unclear whose property was involved or when the incident occurred, a voice in the video of the encounter is heard saying, “You hungry, ask for food, you don’t break into people’s houses.”
JTV understands that the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has been made aware of the matter. Further details will be provided as they become available.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Safe Haven Transitional Centre recently organised a community cleanup in the Nanny Cay area, emphasising the connection between mental wellness and the environment.
“Our residents and staff took part in this initiative not just to beautify the area but to highlight the powerful link between mental health and the spaces we occupy,” said Mrs. Nellville George Bronstorph, Director of the Safe Haven Transitional Centre.
Mrs. George Bronstorph added that the cleanup was an opportunity to demonstrate that, despite the challenges some residents face, including mental health diagnoses, they remain valuable and capable individuals.
Reflecting on the significance of the month, she said, “This is a time to reflect, recognise, and raise our voices in support of those navigating mental health challenges. We thank each resident for his or her contribution and stand in solidarity with all who are on their mental health wellness journey.”
The centre’s leadership is encouraging the broader community to continue fostering supportive, clean, and connected environments as part of a holistic approach to mental wellness.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development, through the Safe Haven Transitional Centre, remains committed to providing ongoing support and opportunities for growth to individuals on their journey toward mental wellness.
A 22-year-old man has been charged in connection with a late-night shooting outside a popular nightclub in Free Bottom. Following reports of gunfire in the area on Monday, April 28, 2024, officers arrested Jamari Scatliffe of John’s Hole, who now faces charges of possession of a firearm with intent to put another in fear, unlawful possession of explosives, and attempted robbery.
According to initial reports, officers responded to the scene shortly after 1:45 a.m., where two masked individuals allegedly approached a group near the nightclub, prompting one person to flee inside. The masked assailants then fired several rounds before escaping.
A subsequent search of the area recovered eight spent shell casings, including five .223 caliber and three .40 caliber rounds.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool commended the swift action by officers, stressing the department’s commitment to public safety.
“Gun violence has no place in our community,” Vanterpool said. “The swift action by officers to investigate and bring charges in this matter reflects our continued commitment to ensuring public safety. We thank those who have already come forward and continue to urge anyone with information to do the right thing.”
The RVIPF is encouraging anyone with information related to this or other crimes to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 or from overseas at (284) 800-8477.
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