Local News
Customer Service Care Centre Relocates to Burhym Building, Enhancing Service Delivery
The Customer Service Care Centre has completed its relocation to the first floor of the Burhym Building on De Castro Street in Road Town. This new location aims to provide an elevated level of service to clients, offering a more central and easily accessible space for walk-in services.
Deputy Governor, Mr. David D. Archer Jr., expressed his enthusiasm for the centre’s new home, viewing it as a significant step towards providing the best possible service to customers. He emphasized that the relocation would enhance the capacity and resources available to meet the needs of valued customers.
“As we continue to transform the Public Service, one client at a time, the Customer Service Care Centre is a testament to our commitment to exceptional customer service,” stated the Deputy Governor. “This move represents another crucial milestone in our ongoing efforts to elevate the level of service we provide to our customers.”
The new space of the Customer Service Care Centre allows for improved reception of customer feedback, increased visibility, and enhanced monitoring of the Government of the Virgin Islands’ service delivery tools. Customer Service Manager, Ms. Abbarah Brown, emphasized the team’s dedication to prioritizing customer needs across various departments.
“We are in the business of serving. Ensuring that our customers receive the highest level of care is paramount in everything we do,” said Ms. Brown. “This new centralized location empowers our team to better cater to all customer needs.”
The Customer Service Care Centre acts as a vital connection between individuals and the Government’s services, offering assistance with appointment bookings, switchboard operations, email inquiries, and more. Customers can now enjoy a hassle-free process when conducting business with the Government of the Virgin Islands.
To reach the centre, customers can contact them at 468-3701 or via email at customerservice@gov.vg. Additionally, customers are encouraged to book appointments with Government departments at bvips.org and rate their customer service experiences at rateus.gov.vg.
The Government of the Virgin Islands remains steadfast in its commitment to providing excellent customer service to all clients. With the relocation of the Customer Service Care Centre, the Government aims to continue delivering efficient and accessible services to the community.
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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