Local News
Opposition Leader to Introduce No-Confidence Motion Against Virgin Islands Government
The Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Ronnie Skelton, is set to introduce a no-confidence motion against the current Virgin Islands government, citing a series of alleged failures by Premier and Minister for Finance, Hon. Dr. Natalio Wheatley. The motion argues that since assuming office in April 2023, Premier Wheatley’s leadership has led to a deteriorating economic outlook, declining quality of life, and a lack of public trust in the government.
The motion highlights several key points, including Premier Wheatley’s recent admission in the House of Assembly of a $20 million underestimation in salary increases for public officials, which could place a significant strain on public resources. It also criticizes the Premier for failing to produce an economic plan for the Territory, despite repeated requests from Opposition members, and for a lack of a comprehensive tourism plan to enhance the Virgin Islands’ market share.
Further allegations include the neglect of key government assets, such as the dilapidated state of the Prospect Reef Hotel, the mismanagement of public funds on initiatives like the Virgin Islands Music Festival 2024, and excessive government spending on international travel. The motion also points to the underfunding of critical sectors such as education, small businesses, and agriculture, and raises concerns over the Premier’s handling of the Territory’s infrastructure and public safety challenges.
Additional grievances center around the Premier’s unilateral decisions without public consultation, including his dialogues with the UN on decolonization and his acceptance of the Commission of Inquiry’s recommendations. The Opposition contends that these actions have undermined public trust and accountability.
The motion concludes with a call for the dissolution of the current Fifth House of Assembly, urging a new election to allow citizens to elect a government in which they can place their confidence.
Entertainment
Thirteen Restaurants to Serve Up Lobster Delights at Anegada Lobster Festival 2024
Local News
British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission Welcomes New Leadership
The British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVIFSC) has announced new appointments to its governing board, with Mr. Gerard St Clair Farara KC stepping in as Chairman and Ms. Patlian Johnson as Commissioner. The appointments, confirmed by the Ministry of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, mark a new chapter for the commission as it seeks to strengthen the territory’s financial services sector.
Mr. Gerard St Clair Farara KC has been appointed to a three-year term as Chairman, effective August 1, 2024. A seasoned legal expert with a distinguished career, Farara currently serves as a Commercial Court Judge for the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and leads the litigation team at the BVI office of COLLAS CRILL, formerly Farara Kerins. Farara’s prominence in the legal community is further highlighted by his appointment as Queen’s Counsel in 1996, cementing his standing as a leading figure in the Virgin Islands Bar and the broader Eastern Caribbean.
Ms. Patlian Johnson will serve a one-year term as Commissioner, also beginning on August 1, 2024. Johnson, a Strategy and Policy Advisor with extensive experience, currently holds the position of National Coordinator for the UNDP Project Office. She brings an impressive academic background, including a Master of Science in Economics and Finance from the University of Bristol and a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Accounting with First Class Honours from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus.
The pair will replace outgoing Chairman Mr. Robin F. Gaul and Commissioner Mr. Melvin A. Turnbull, whose terms have concluded. Minister of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE (AL), praised the new appointments, stating, “I am delighted to welcome Mr. Farara and Ms. Johnson to the BVIFSC Board of Commissioners. Their combined expertise will be invaluable as we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities facing the financial services sector.”
Smith also expressed gratitude to the departing board members for their significant contributions to the growth and stability of the territory’s financial services industry. According to the Government Information Service (GIS), these appointments underscore the Virgin Islands’ commitment to maintaining a well-regulated and competitive financial services sector.
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