Local News
Marcus Solomon Appointed as Director of Waste Management
In an effort to enhance and develop waste management solutions in the Territory, Mr. Marcus Solomon has been appointed as the Director of the Department of Waste Management. This appointment comes as the Ministry of Health and Social Development recognizes the need for improved waste management strategies.
Mr. Solomon brings with him a wealth of experience in public utility management. In his previous role as Senior Planning Specialist at the Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Public Utilities, he conducted a comprehensive assessment of the Public Utilities Sector, including water and wastewater, solid waste management, postal services, and electricity.
Honourable Vincent Wheatley, the Minister for Health and Social Development, expressed confidence in Mr. Solomon’s ability to address the challenges faced by the waste management system. He emphasized the importance of reducing waste through recycling and other means, and believes that Mr. Solomon’s expertise will greatly contribute to the betterment of the Territory.
As the Director of Waste Management, Mr. Solomon will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the department. His vision and strategic actions will guide the department in finding effective solutions to the waste management issues that plague the Territory.
Mr. Solomon’s appointment aligns with the Public Service Transformation initiative, championed by Acting Governor Mr. David Archer Jr., which aims to create a public service that meets and exceeds the needs of the Territory. The Acting Governor expressed excitement about Mr. Solomon joining the Ministry and highlighted his experience in policy development and innovative waste management solutions.
Speaking about his appointment, Mr. Solomon shared his passion for the environment, which was sparked during his studies in environmental and social economics. Over the past seven years, he has been dedicated to developing policies and strategies to transform waste management practices and expand the waste management industry.
Mr. Solomon expressed his enthusiasm for working closely with the citizens and government of the Virgin Islands to make the Department of Waste Management a global standard in waste management. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of the West Indies, a Master of Business Administration from Heriot-Watt University, and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Project Planning, Appraisal, and Management.
The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to ensuring a cleaner and safer territory for all residents by establishing an excellent waste management system. With Mr. Solomon at the helm, the Department of Waste Management is poised to achieve new heights and set a global example in waste management practices.
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.
In an inspiring act of generosity, Russ Roschman, an avid animal lover, marked his birthday in an extraordinary way—by dedicating it to the furry residents of the BVI Humane Society. Instead of accepting gifts, Roschman launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised an impressive $2,500 for the shelter.
Roschman spent the day with the shelter’s animals, earning the gratitude of staff and the community alike. The funds raised will be directed toward the running costs of the current shelter, providing vital resources to care for the animals.
The BVI Humane Society, in a heartfelt post, expressed their appreciation, calling Roschman an “amazing animal lover” and extending a “big furball thanks” for his kindness.
This act of selflessness shines a light on the ongoing needs of shelters like the BVI Humane Society, which rely on donations and community support to provide essential care for animals in need. Roschman’s gesture is a reminder of the impact individuals can make, one paw at a time.
The Immigration and Passport (Amendment) Act, 2024, signed into law by Governor Daniel Pruce on November 1, introduces significant changes to the Territory’s immigration policies. Among the most notable amendments is the doubling of the residency requirement for individuals seeking Belonger status, extending the period from ten to twenty years.
The legislation also establishes an Immigration Appeals Board to handle challenges and disputes, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the transparency and accountability of the immigration process. Premier Natalio Wheatley described the amendments as a step forward in refining the system. “We are committed to ensuring that the process is transparent and equitab
Governor Daniel Pruce
le,” the Premier said in a statement.
While the new law introduces robust measures to regulate and manage immigration, it has drawn mixed reactions. One key point of contention is the lack of new pathways for children born in the Virgin Islands to non-Belonger parents. Critics argue that this omission leaves a gap in addressing a demographic often caught in legal limbo.
The amended law also tasks a newly created Quota Setting Committee with advising the Board of Immigration on annual quotas for residence and Belonger certificates. This ensures that quotas align with the Territory’s capacity and strategic objectives.
However, the law is not yet in effect. It will commence on a date to be announced by the Premier in the official Gazette. Applications submitted before this date will be processed under the previous legal framework, providing clarity for those already in the system.
The government has framed these changes as part of its broader strategy to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for the Virgin Islands. “These amendments are designed to support the Territory’s long-term goals while maintaining fairness for all residents,” a government statement emphasised.
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
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