Local News
Bryan to Appeal Directly to Trump If Necessary in BVI-USVI Trade Dispute
– Blasts Gittens for Weakening USVI Position
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. vows to take the USVI-BVI trade dispute to President Trump if necessary, accusing Senator Gittens of undermining negotiations. The canceled meeting will be rescheduled as officials work toward a resolution that protects USVI interests.
Following the abrupt cancellation of a scheduled meeting between the 36th Legislature and Bryan administration officials regarding the ongoing trade dispute with the British Virgin Islands, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. condemned Senator Kenneth Gittens for weakening the territory’s negotiating stance. Bryan also stated that he is prepared to petition President Trump to impose tariffs on the BVI that could have significant economic repercussions.
The meeting was canceled after information was made public regarding the USVI’s lack of authority to levy tariffs independently. Senator Gittens had sought clarification from the Senate’s legal counsel on the issue, and the legal opinion confirmed that only the President of the United States has the power to impose such tariffs. Governor Bryan believes that by making this information public, the USVI’s negotiating position was undermined, leading to the sudden cancellation of the meeting.
“Whose side is he on?” Governor Bryan said, referring to Senator Gittens. “It’s about his ego. He isn’t about the Virgin Islands.” The governor had initially called for the emergency meeting to discuss imposing a 25% tariff on BVI goods in response to proposed legislation in the BVI that would significantly raise charter fees. USVI marine industry leaders have warned that such a move could severely impact local businesses.
Governor Bryan stressed that his administration is moving forward with decisive action against the BVI. He also revealed that if necessary, he would seek support from President Trump to implement the proposed tariffs.
“We are moving forward with our own strategy, and if we need help from the White House, I’ll get it from there too,” Bryan said. “I don’t think it will come to that, but I have shared my position with the Deputy Chief of Staff at the White House. He told me, ‘If you need my help, just let me know.’” The governor noted that his goal is to create an equitable and sustainable sailing and charter boat environment in the greater Virgin Islands.
The meeting has been rescheduled for next week, the governor revealed. He also noted that BVI officials have indicated a willingness to collaborate on a deal that would be beneficial to all parties involved. Discussions are expected to focus on finding a resolution that supports both territories’ economic interests while addressing concerns raised by USVI marine industry leaders.
Source: VI Consortium
White Bay Beach, located on the small island of Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands, was recently featured in a travel article on MSN.com, highlighting its reputation as one of the Caribbean’s top destinations.
The article describes the beach’s white sands, clear turquoise waters, and the lively beach bars along its shore. Accessible mainly by boat, White Bay is a popular stop for yachters and day-trippers. Many visitors anchor offshore and swim to the beach to enjoy its attractions.
Among the well-known spots mentioned is the Soggy Dollar Bar, famous for creating the Painkiller cocktail, a mix of dark rum, coconut cream, and tropical juices topped with nutmeg. Other featured locations include Hendo’s Hideout, known for its Caribbean cuisine, and Coco Loco, praised for its fish tacos.
White Bay also offers activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The coral reef just offshore is home to diverse marine life, making it a draw for water enthusiasts. Visitors looking for relaxation can also experience the Ocean Spa, which provides massages in a floating hut on the bay.
Accommodations near White Bay range from private villas to larger estates, many with ocean views. The Hideout, featuring seven villas with private plunge pools, and White Bay Villas, offering various lodging options with access to the White Bay Beach Club, were also highlighted.
The MSN.com feature showcases White Bay Beach’s combination of natural beauty and vibrant culture, reinforcing its status as a must-visit destination in the Virgin Islands.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Forc e (RVIPF) have charged Akiba Forde, Kwayne Francis, and a 17-year-old male in connection with separate cases of Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm.
On February 7 at approximately 21:29 hours, the RVIPF arrested and charged Akiba Forde, 42, of Paraquita Bay for Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm. He was granted bail in the amount of $5,000 and is scheduled to appear at the Magistrate’s Court on 20 March 2025.
The following day, February 8, at approximately 08:59 hours, police arrested and charged Kwayne Francis, 26, of Cane Garden Bay for Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm. He was also granted bail in the amount of $5,000 and is set to appear in court on 20 March 2025.
A 17-year-old male was arrested and charged with Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm on February 15, at approximately 14:50 hours,. He was granted bail in the amount of $5,000 and is scheduled to appear at the Magistrate’s Court March 27, 2025.
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The roadworks project in Hodges Creek is set to continue following an amicable resolution between the government and the Chalwell family, the Ministry of Communications and Works has confirmed.
The dispute arose after landowner Clyde Chalwell raised concerns over property boundaries and the lack of prior consultation before construction began. In response, he erected boundary poles on his land, asserting that the government had failed to engage in discussions before encroaching on private property.
Following a meeting with Chalwell and his family, the ministry announced that an agreement had been reached, allowing the project to proceed. The works include the rehabilitation of existing footpaths and the installation of a new drainage system aimed at improving the area’s infrastructure.
In a rare public admission, the government apologised to the Chalwell family, acknowledging “deficiencies in its departments’ approach” that contributed to the dispute. The ministry expressed its appreciation for the family’s cooperation and pledged to enhance communication in future development projects.
“The Ministry of Communications and Works remains committed to ensuring that all future developments are conducted with open and transparent communication,” the statement read.
With construction now moving forward, officials have reiterated their commitment to working closely with the Chalwell family and other stakeholders to ensure the project progresses smoothly and benefits the wider community.
The resolution underscores the importance of open dialogue between the government and private landowners, reinforcing the need for transparency and consultation in public infrastructure projects.
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