Anegada Being Treated as “Distant Cousins” of the BVI, Urges Government Action – Lorna Smith

Territorial-At-Large Representative Lorna Smith, OBE, has issued a strong call for the government to address the long-standing neglect of Anegada, particularly regarding delays in land allocation, unpaid workers, and lack of economic support. Speaking at an opposition press conference on January 17, Smith criticised what she described as unfair treatment of Anegadians, urging immediate action to resolve these critical issues.

“While on Anegada, one of the things that concerns me deeply—and I believe it concerns all of us in the opposition—is that the land titles that were agreed to be given to Anegadians over a year ago are still not in their hands,” Smith stated. “What is even more annoying and concerning to Anegadians is that persons who are not from Anegada are able to carry on their developments ahead of Anegadians. I call on the government to fix these kinds of issues.”

Smith underscored the frustration among Anegadians over the delay, pointing out that their aspirations for land ownership have been stifled, despite assurances from the government. She criticised the disparity, noting that non-residents appear to face fewer hurdles in pursuing developments.

Adding to her concerns, Smith highlighted the plight of workers who played a pivotal role in advancing the work of the Anegada Lands Commission. “Last year, we approved supplementary provisions for the persons who had worked so hard on the Anegada Lands Commission, doing all the groundwork to bring between 60 to 90 land grants to approval. These people still have not been paid the monies owed to them,” she said.

Smith described Anegada’s treatment as unacceptable and akin to being “a distant cousin of the British Virgin Islands.” She called for the government to prioritise the island’s development. “I call on the government to bring Anegada to the centre, as I always say, and to give them the kind of attention that they need.”

Smith also touched on the exclusion of Anegadians from micro and small business grants. “There are a number of Anegadians who made applications for assistance under the micro and small business grants, and they were also left out of the fold,” she said.

She urged the government to rectify the situation, expressing hope for a resolution. “Having spoken to them, having spoken to the ministry and the Department of Trade, I hope they will receive the grants that they are eligible for this year.”

In her remarks, Smith expanded her criticism to include issues faced by other sister islands, such as Jost Van Dyke. She expressed solidarity with representatives advocating for fair treatment and equitable development across all islands.

“Anegadians deserve better. It is time for the government to step up and honour their commitments,” Smith concluded.