Local News
Virgin Islands Cabinet Approves Fee Increase for Nationality Services
The Cabinet of the Virgin Islands has given the green light to an increase in fees for several nationality services, effective June 1.
The decision, made on November 14, 2023, aims to ensure that the Civil Registry and Passport Office can maintain U.K. standards and in some cases, reflect a direct conversion from Sterling to U.S. Dollars. This adjustment is part of ongoing efforts to upgrade and streamline the Naturalisation processes in the Virgin Islands.
Registrar General, Mrs. Tashi O’Flaherty-Maduro, emphasised the importance of modernising systems to enhance efficiency, stating, “We continue to strive to modernise our systems, and work towards processing applicants as efficiently as possible. This fee update will allow the Civil Registry and Passport Office to build upon the progress made thus far, and forge ahead with delivering a service to our clients that is on par with regional and international standards.”
The revised fees are as follows:
- Application for naturalisation as a British Overseas Territories Citizen (Adult): $650.00
- Application Fee: $100.00
- Application for registration as a British Overseas Territories Citizen (Child 17 and under): $275.00
- Application Fee: $75.00
- Application for registration as a British Overseas Territories Citizen where an adult is eligible to apply under registration: $400.00
- Application Fee: $100.00
- Status Letters: $100.00
The Civil Registry and Passport Office remains committed to providing a high level of service to its clients while effectively managing civil records, nationality matters, and passports for residents in the Territory of the Virgin Islands.
Education
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
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