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Turnbull Blasts Government Over Seniors’ Healthcare Costs
Hon. Melvin M. Turnbull, Second District Representative, strongly criticised the government’s neglect of seniors and the growing problem of crime during the Opposition’s press conference on January 17. He called for immediate solutions to protect the territory’s most vulnerable populations and address escalating social challenges.
“Our seniors have toiled for decades to build this territory,” Turnbull stated. “It is unacceptable that the National Health Insurance and the BVI Health Services Authority have not ensured that exempt individuals, including our seniors, are truly free from the cost of accessing health care at our facilities.”
Turnbull highlighted the challenges faced by elderly citizens who struggle to afford medical care despite policies intended to exempt them from such costs. He stressed the need for immediate action to alleviate these burdens.
“This territory owes its progress to the sacrifices of our seniors,” he continued. “It is our moral obligation to ensure they receive the support they need without additional burdens on their already stretched finances.”
Turnbull also criticised the inadequacy of current retirement benefits, pointing out the rising cost of living and the impact on seniors’ quality of life. He urged the government to take responsibility for addressing this issue.
“Our seniors deserve better. They should not have to choose between basic necessities and living with dignity,” Turnbull said. “I urge the ministry responsible to prioritise this and make the necessary changes without delay.”
Shifting focus to crime, Turnbull described it as an alarming issue affecting the entire Virgin Islands. He emphasised that crime is not confined to a single district but is a challenge that requires a united response.
“Crime continues to be a growing concern, and it does not just affect one district—it affects the entire territory,” Turnbull said. “These social ills are deeply rooted, and we must address the underlying causes if we are to make meaningful progress.”
Turnbull called on the government to stop delaying action and take immediate steps to resolve these pressing issues. He stressed that the wellbeing of seniors and the safety of all residents should be top priorities.
“The time for excuses is over,” he said. “We need real action to ensure our seniors can live with dignity and to restore safety and stability to our communities.”
Turnbull’s remarks reinforced the Opposition’s stance that the government is failing to meet its obligations, leaving critical issues unresolved and the territory’s most vulnerable citizens unsupported.
Acting Commissioner and Governor Outline Key Initiatives and Vision for the Year Ahead
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) convened its first Force Meeting of 2025 under the leadership of Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool. The meeting, attended by His Excellency the Governor and members of the Police Service Commission, served as a platform to highlight achievements from the past year and unveil strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the Force’s capabilities and public trust.
His Excellency the Governor announced a robust package of support from the United Kingdom, set to begin in February, that underscores a long-term commitment to bolstering the RVIPF. Two senior UK officers will be deployed to assist in critical areas, including organisational priorities and completing Volume 2 of His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) law review recommendations.
“These officers will provide vital expertise to support the Force’s ongoing transformation,” the Governor stated. He emphasised that their work will be directly aligned with the RVIPF’s leadership under Acting Commissioner Vanterpool.
Additional measures include specialised training and equipment upgrades for the Marine Unit, mentoring for the Intelligence Department, and the introduction of comprehensive vetting processes across law enforcement agencies following formal agreements.
The Governor also provided updates on the upcoming selection process for a permanent Commissioner of Police, which is expected to begin in the latter half of 2025 and could span six months.
Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool used the opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of RVIPF officers throughout 2024, noting progress in technology, infrastructure, and operational efficiency.
“Our officers worked tirelessly last year, and their efforts have laid a strong foundation for continued success,” Vanterpool said.
She announced several key milestones, including the confirmation of officers to the Permanent and Pensionable establishment and long-awaited promotions from Sergeants to Chief Inspectors.
Reiterating her commitment to accountability, the Acting Commissioner declared, “Under my leadership, any officer caught breaking the law will be prosecuted to the fullest extent.” She also emphasized a renewed focus on community engagement, promising increased visibility across all levels of the Force.
The meeting reinforced the RVIPF’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and accountability. Plans for 2025 include strengthening partnerships with local, regional, and international stakeholders to address evolving challenges and build trust with the public.
A male resident of the United States Virgin Islands has been arrested by officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) following the discovery of 200 rounds of ammunition during a stop-and-search operation of several vehicles.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline E. Vanterpool confirmed the arrest during a press conference held today, January 15, at Police Headquarters.
“While the officers were out investigating and responding to aforementioned incidents, officers stopped and searched several vehicles,” Commissioner Vanterpool stated. “During one of the searches, they discovered 200 rounds of ammunition in the possession of a male motorist. He was arrested, and several lines of inquiry are being conducted around the ammunition.”
The Acting Commissioner noted that while details of the case remain limited due to the ongoing investigation, the individual is confirmed to be a resident of the United States Virgin Islands. She assured the public that additional information on this and related matters would be provided in the coming days.
The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any information that could assist ongoing investigations.
Further updates will be issued as new details emerge.
Officers with the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) are investigating the death of a man discovered unresponsive in a derelict vehicle in the Long Swamp area late on the evening of January 8.
The RVIPF responded to the scene shortly after 11 p.m. Upon arrival, they found the body of a man in a green, abandoned RAV4 SUV. The individual, identified as 68-year-old Courtney Fahie, was dressed in a blue plaid shirt and blue denim shorts. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities reported no visible signs of violence or suspicious markings on the body, but investigations into the circumstances of his death are ongoing.
The RVIPF has appealed to the public for any information that might assist the investigation. Anyone with knowledge about the incident is encouraged to contact the RVIPF at 368-9339 or use the non-emergency line at 311.
The RVIPF has extended condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time.
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