Local News
Opposition Eyes United Front to Unseat VIP in Next Election, Says Skelton
Hon. Ronnie Skelton, Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, revealed at a press conference held today, January 17, that discussions are underway among opposition members about forming a united front to challenge the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) in the next general election.
“One of the things that we have recognised as an opposition, even when the Member for the Third District was with us, we rocognised is that the last two elections clearly show that as individual parties, it is very difficult to unseat the Virgin Islands Party,” Skelton said. He further noted that ongoing discussions aim to bring people together for a “common cause.”
When asked directly if he supports a merger between the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM) and the National Democratic Party (NDP), Skelton responded, “I support the merger of our people on all sides getting together for the common cause of developing our country.”
Pressed on whether he envisions the merger as the two existing parties coming together or forming an entirely new entity, Skelton admitted, “That’s a difficult question. I never thought about it. But ask me again at the next press conference, and I might have an answer.” He clarified that no new entity is forming with his explicit blessing at this time.
The opposition currently comprises three members of the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM): Hon. Ronnie Skelton, Hon. Melvin Mitch Turnbull, and Hon. Stacy Buddah Mather. It also includes Hon. Marlon A. Penn and Hon. Myron V. Walwyn of the National Democratic Party (NDP). Additionally, Hon. Lorna G. Smith, who contested the 2023 general elections under the NDP banner, sits as a member of the Opposition.
Elections are constitutionally due in 2027.
Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut
