Local News
BVI Airports Authority Takes Leadership Role in ACI-LAC Governing Board
The BVI Airports Authority has been elected to serve as an Advisor on the Governing Board of Airports Council International – Latin America and the Caribbean (ACI-LAC).
As of January 2023, ACI boasts 712 members, operating in 1925 airports across 171 countries. The council, organized in a federal manner, comprises ACI World and five ACI Regions: Africa, Asia-Pacific and Middle East, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and North America.
Having joined the council in 2019, the BVI Airports Authority’s recent election to the Advisory role on the Governing Board occurred during the ACI-LAC Annual Assembly Conference and Exhibition in Miami, held from November 5 to 7. Managing Director Mr. Kurt Menal, leading the delegation, reiterated the Authority’s commitment to being a proactive player in regional aviation.
“Our two-year term as an advisor will see the Authority actively contributing to the council’s mission and vision, with a particular focus on air transport liberalization in Latin America and the Caribbean and addressing the perennial issue of intra-regional connectivity,” stated Mr. Menal.
Participating in a panel discussion on air transport liberalization, Mr. Menal emphasized the Authority’s expertise and dedication to shaping the future of aviation in the region. He highlighted the significance of the appointment, positioning the Authority as a leader in aviation and an advocate for regional airports.
“The Governing Board of ACI ensures that policy recommendations represent the collective interests of ACI members. The Authority’s appointment will allow us to provide crucial leadership and act as a strategic link between the Authority and over 700 business partners associated with ACI-LAC,” explained Mr. Menal, foreseeing strengthened collaboration with the Government of the Virgin Islands, particularly in the ambitious Airport development project.
Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Theodore Burke, commended the Authority on this significant milestone, stating, “It is indeed an honor for the Authority to champion the cause of smaller airports in the Caribbean. This prestigious appointment recognizes our commitment to excellence and provides an unparalleled opportunity for our staff to be exposed to international best practices and development.”
In addition to the advisory role, the Authority is represented on several ACI-LAC sub-committees, including Safety, Environment, Commercial & Economics, General Aviation, and Human Resources. Staff members specializing in these areas contribute to capacity building and expand their professional networks.
The Airports Council International collaborates with governments, regional ACI members, experts, and international organizations to develop policies, programs, and best practices that advance airport standards globally.
The Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation has enriched the Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School with a collection of books spotlighting the Virgin Islands’ rich history, heritage, and culture.
The donation, presented by Abigail O’Neal, Executive Director of the Foundation, comes as part of the organization’s commitment to preserving the region’s cultural legacy while fostering a love for reading.
“Every school year, my father would donate books by local and other authors to schools throughout the Territory,” said O’Neal. “It’s my humble pleasure to carry on this tradition as part of the Foundation’s work.”
During her visit to the school, O’Neal found herself inspired by the students’ palpable enthusiasm for learning. One student proudly shared that he was juggling three books at once, a testament to the school’s nurturing environment and the students’ thirst for knowledge.
“It is so important that our children develop a love for the written word in all forms. Reading not only educates but expands one’s vision and transports readers to different worlds,” O’Neal emphasized.
The donation includes several rare and out-of-print titles, aligning with the Foundation’s mission to reintroduce pivotal historical works to the Virgin Islands community. These books, O’Neal explained, are vital for preserving the wisdom and lessons of the past.
Engaging with the students, she encouraged discussions about the significance of history. The students’ collective response — “Because those lessons can help us inform the future” — underscored the lasting impact of such initiatives.
O’Neal also commended the efforts of Ms. Powell and her teaching staff for creating an environment that fosters academic curiosity and excellence. She extended her gratitude to Victor International and the Johnson Family for their continued support of education in Virgin Gorda.
For more information, please contact: Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) Tourist Board and Film Commission has dismissed the Miss BVI Committee, including its chairwoman, Jaynene Jno Lewis, according to reliable sources.
Sources indicate that the termination was formalised on December 5, four months after the committee organised the Miss BVI Pageant as part of the 70th Emancipation Festival celebrations.
Information received by JTV suggests that the decision to part ways with the committee came as a surprise. However, it is understood that the letter signed by the Director of Tourism, Clive McCoy, thanked the committee for their contributions to the 70th celebrations and indicated that, with the festival now concluded, their tenure had come to an end.
While sources have speculated about potential reasons for the dismissal, it has not been confirmed whether the challenges surrounding the Miss BVI Pageant played a role in the decision.
The pageant, held on July 21 at the Multipurpose Sports Complex, faced significant backlash from attendees who described the event as poorly organised. VIP ticket holders, who paid for premium experiences, reported enduring long lines, overcrowded seating, and delayed service.
In a public apology issued the day after the event, the Miss BVI Committee acknowledged the logistical issues and expressed regret. “We sincerely and wholeheartedly apologize for any inconvenience caused,” the statement read. The committee also promised a thorough investigation to address the problems.
At the time of writing, the BVI Tourism Board and Film Commission has yet to issue a public statement regarding the dismissal of the committee.
Local News
Virgin Islands Prison Service Receives UK Funding to Bolster Security and Modernise Operations
His Majesty’s Virgin Islands Prison Service (HMVIPS) has received a UK-funded support package to enhance security, improve staff protection, and modernize operations at Her Majesty’s Prison (HMP) Balsam Ghut. This initiative represents a significant step in strengthening the prison’s ability to maintain safety for its staff, inmates, and the wider Virgin Islands community.
This week, Lee Pilkington, Head of the National Locking Section for the UK Ministry of Justice (MoJ) Property Directorate, visited HMP Balsam Ghut, delivering specialized tools and sharing advanced security practices. These measures, utilized across the UK prison estate, are tailored to fortify the local facility’s operational framework and improve response capabilities.
As part of the initiative, prison officers received advanced radios and identification cards funded by the UK Government. The radios, which enhance communication and coordination, have already demonstrated their value. In one notable incident, officers intercepted a package containing contraband, including phones and drugs, thrown over the prison’s perimeter fence. Swift communication via the new radios enabled a coordinated response involving prison and police teams.
The upgraded identification cards also streamline access control within the facility, reducing the likelihood of unauthorized entry and strengthening overall security.
Governor of the Virgin Islands, Daniel Pruce, emphasized the broader impact of these advancements:
“Security provides a strong foundation for growth and prosperity. The safety and security of Virgin Islanders is my top priority, and His Majesty’s Virgin Islands Prison Service is critical to that mission. By equipping prison officers with better tools and enhancing security measures, we are creating a safer community and reducing the risk of reoffending.”
Superintendent of HMP Balsam Ghut, Jay Kendall, lauded the partnership with the UK Ministry of Justice:
“Fostering a culture of excellence at HMP Balsam Ghut is vital to safeguarding the Virgin Islands. This support package reflects a commitment to improving our prison service and ensuring its long-term success.”
A significant highlight for HMVIPS came on December 4, with its inaugural Staff Awards ceremony at Government House. The event celebrated the dedication of prison staff and recognized key stakeholders for their contributions to fostering excellence and inclusivity. Among the honorees was Prison Officer Rodriguez, named Prison Officer of the Year 2024.
Ralph T. & Edris O’Neal Foundation Champions Education with Book Donation
Clive McCoy Director of Tourism Dismisses Miss BVI Committee
Virgin Islands Prison Service Receives UK Funding to Bolster Security and Modernise Operations
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