“The Premier in his letter to me cited a lack of support in relation to COI obligations as one of the reasons for my removal. However, if you have followed my work since being sworn in as Minister, it is evident that the accusations hold no merit,” Smith said at her October 23 press conference, held just hours after Wheatley announced via social media that former Virgin Islands Party (VIP) member Julian Fraser had been sworn in as Deputy Premier.

The former Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade revealed that she was notified of her dismissal via a letter received around 8 a.m. while she was at work in her office.

Smith, who won the Territorial-At-Large seat with the National Democratic Party (NDP) in the April 2023 elections, previously switched allegiance to give the Virgin Islands Party a majority to form a government.

A composed former First Lady emphasised that her “record speaks for itself,” noting, “under my leadership, my ministry, along with its hard working team, has met all COI deadlines, fulfilling every obligation within the required timeframe.”

“The Premier’s reasoning is simply untrue, and I believe that it is imperative that he be honest with the people about his true motives rather than fabricating baseless claims.”

Wheatley in his public statement thanked Smith for her service, adding that “I do so with a heavy heart. She did not give me the confidence that she would remain with my administration for the duration of this term.”

The head of the territory added: “This is a necessary change to the composition of the government that provides my administration with political stability and a wealth of knowledge and experience which will serve us well over the course of the remainder of this House of Assembly, political stability is critical at this time to ensure we finalise completion of governance reforms, effectively address the recommendations of the mutual evaluation report.”

At the end of August, Governor David Pruce announced that the government had missed the deadline for implementing key reforms outlined in the 2021 Commission of Inquiry Report, which exposed widespread corruption within the administration.

The CoI was initiated by former Governor Augustus Jaspert in January 2021, and a year later, Commissioner Sir Gary Hickinbottom presented a comprehensive 900-page report detailing significant corruption and recommending a partial constitutional suspension to facilitate essential governance reforms.

But Premier Wheatley in August assured the territory that 45 of the 48 proposed reforms had been completed, promising that the remaining changes would be finalised within a week.

Tensions continue regarding the territory’s political future, as the United Kingdom has warned that failure to implement the reforms could lead to the retention of the Order in Council, potentially resulting in a two-year constitutional suspension.

The former Deputy Premier shared that “despite the difficult economic challenges we face, my focus has always been on strengthening our economy while supporting the government in meeting its obligations.”

She made it clear to Premier Wheatley upon switching sides that “I was here to serve the people of the Virgin Islands, not to serve political interests.

“The truth is I have never wavered in my commitment to the Virgin Islands and its people. When I made the decision to join the government, my singular focus was the continued development of our territory. I was transparent about my intentions then, and I remain steadfast in that mission now.”

“It is exactly what I have done up until this point,” Smith said, highlighting several key achievements during her tenure as Minister, including a successful response to the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) mutual evaluation report, the launch of the Financial Services Solution Programme, and the establishment of the First Tomorrow’s Leaders Internship Programme.

She also led a trade mission to Guyana and Asia and co-chaired the UK Overseas Territories Economic Dialogue, the first of its kind.

“My recent efforts, particularly our successful response to the CFATF mutual evaluation report, have been recognised both locally and internationally, and I am proud of what we have achieved together,” Smith said.

The post Premier Wheatley’s Allegations of Insufficient COI Support Lack Merit: Says Smith appeared first on Jahphix Television - BVI's #1 NEWS SOURCE.

In a statement to the media regarding her upcoming press conference, she said, “At approximately 8:00 a.m. this morning, I received a letter from the Hon Premier stating he requested that His

Excellency the Governor revoke my appointment as Deputy Premier and Minister of Financial Services, Labour and Trade.”

In a virtual statement on Tuesday morning, the Premier thanked Smith for her service, adding, “I do so with a heavy heart. She did not give me the confidence that she would remain with my administration for the duration of this term.”

Former Virgin Islands Party (VIP) member and Third District representative Julian Fraser has now taken on the role of Deputy Premier. Fraser remains the chairman of the Progressives United party but has aligned himself with the Virgin Islands Party, where he was a longtime member.

Governor David Pruce signed the instruments of appointment on Tuesday, and Fraser was officially sworn in.

The Premier emphasised that “this is a necessary change to the composition of the government that provides my administration with political stability and a wealth of knowledge and experience which will serve us well over the course of the remainder of this House of Assembly. Political stability is critical at this time to ensure we finalise the completion of governance reforms and effectively address the recommendations of the mutual evaluation report.”

Smith, who won the Territorial-At-Large vote for the National Democratic Party (NDP) in the April 2023 general elections, had previously switched her allegiance to assist the ruling VIP in forming a government. She also held the portfolio for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade.

Having resigned from the NDP, the former first lady is now an independent opposition member.

The post Dismissed Deputy Premier Lorna Smith Notified of Removal via Letter from Premier appeared first on Jahphix Television - BVI's #1 NEWS SOURCE.

This change will enable travellers from the resource-rich South American nation to visit the British overseas territory without the need for a visa.

Discussions regarding this new development took place during a 2023 trade mission to Guyana led by Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, Lorna Smith.

“I’ve had discussions with the Premier. In fact, I’ve asked him very directly about the visa situation because Guyanese do require a visa to visit the BVI. He has authorised me to say that we are considering lifting that requirement, and I expect that to happen very soon,” Smith remarked last year, while noting the BVI’s commitment to establishing stronger economic ties with Guyana.

The decision follows a two-year period since the United Kingdom lifted visa entry requirements for Guyanese nationals.

Guyana’s burgeoning economy, largely driven by its substantial oil reserves, has attracted global interest from countries eager to engage with the only English-speaking country in South America.

Notably, on September 27, it was announced that Guyana and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a mutual visa-free travel agreement during the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in the United States.

With a population of just over 700,000, Guyana has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing economy following a major oil discovery in 2015 by ExxonMobil.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reported a staggering GDP growth rate of 62.3% in 2022, marking the highest real GDP growth globally for that year.

By early 2024, the country had ramped up its crude oil production to 645,000 barrels per day.

The former British colony’s recoverable oil and natural gas resources are estimated at over eleven billion oil-equivalent barrels, with further explorations ongoing in its offshore waters.

Since then, ExxonMobil, alongside partners Hess and the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), has identified more than thirty additional offshore discoveries in the Stabroek block.

As of September 2024, the BVI has a population of 39,534, according to United Nations estimates. Among this diverse population, Guyanese nationals make up approximately 7.2%.

Guyanese individuals have a long history of migrating to the BVI, contributing to various sectors such as education, tourism, media, and healthcare.

The post Government to Announce Removal of Visa Restrictions for Guyanese Citizens, Sources Reveal appeared first on Jahphix Television - BVI's #1 NEWS SOURCE.

The laptops were donated by David and Pamela Johnson of Oil Nut Bay (ONB) through the North Sound Foundation (NSF), a symbol of their ongoing commitment to the educational advancement of the students at ROMPS.

This donation is the latest in a series of contributions by ONB, which has supported the school for over a decade. The partnership began with the rebuilding efforts led by NSF following the devastating impact of Hurricane Irma in 2017, which caused extensive damage to the school.

The donation is part of a sustained effort to enhance the educational environment at ROMPS, providing resources and facilities that ensure a conducive learning space. The new laptops are expected to play a crucial role in the students’ academic development, equipping them with the tools necessary for research and study as they transition to high school. This technological boost is seen as vital for preparing the students to meet future challenges.

Ms. Akima Powell, accepting the laptops on behalf of the school, assured Deputy Premier Honourable Lorna Smith that the devices would be presented to the students at their upcoming Exit Dinner on July 4th. This event marks a significant milestone in their educational journey and the laptops will undoubtedly serve as valuable assets in their continued academic pursuits.

Hon Lorna Smith, a fervent advocate for the welfare of children and youth, underscored the importance of digital access in modern education. In her role as Minister responsible for digital transformation, she highlighted the necessity for every household and child in the Virgin Islands to have access to computers and the internet. She stressed that such access is no longer a luxury but a fundamental requirement for effective learning and participation in a digitally connected world.

In her address, Hon. Lorna Smith extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School Class of 2024. She expressed her best wishes for their continued success as they embark on the next chapter of their educational journey, confident that these laptops will serve as invaluable tools in their pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.

The post Deputy Premier Presents Laptops to Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School’s Class of 2024 appeared first on Jahphix Television - BVI's #1 NEWS SOURCE.

Against the backdrop of discussions encompassing minimum wage, labour management systems, business development programmes and financial services diversification, Deputy Premier Smith introduced the transformative initiative.

With a vision to bolster the local economy and empower small businesses, this initiative promises financial assistance to locally-owned MSMEs, paving the way for sustainable growth and prosperity.

“The draft policy for the MSME Grant Programme represents a pivotal step towards fostering an environment conducive to the success of our small business owners,” Deputy Premier Smith declared. “Stakeholder consultations ensure inclusivity, transparency, and effectiveness, laying the groundwork for economic expansion.”

Recognising the challenges faced by SMEs in accessing traditional financing, the government is collaborating closely with the banking sector to promote financial inclusion. “We are committed to overcoming hurdles and facilitating access to financing for SMEs,” affirmed Deputy Premier Smith.

A cornerstone event in this endeavour is the upcoming BVI Business Banking Expo, scheduled for June 6. This dynamic gathering will unite financial institutions, regulators, business owners, and entrepreneurs from across the territory to explore cutting-edge trends and innovations in banking. Moreover, it will provide invaluable advice and guidance to small business owners navigating the complexities of the banking industry.

“The Expo offers a unique opportunity for residents, particularly those in the Sister Islands, to engage with banks and financial institutions,” emphasised Deputy Premier Smith. “It’s a chance to forge meaningful connections, gain insights, and seize new opportunities for growth and development.”

The MSME Grant Programme and the Business Banking Expo underscore the government’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and driving economic resilience.

The post BVI Deputy Premier Unveils MSME Grant Programme and Business Banking Expo Initiative appeared first on Jahphix Television - BVI's #1 NEWS SOURCE.

Republic Bank unveiled its latest offering, the prestigious vertical Mastercard Black credit card, solidifying its commitment to exceptional financial services. The announcement, made in partnership with Mastercard, marks a significant milestone for the pan-regional bank and sets a new standard for premium credit card experiences.

The Mastercard Black credit card represents the pinnacle of Republic Bank’s suite of credit card products, embodying Mastercard’s legacy of quality, reliability, security, and privacy in digital payments. With its sleek vertical design, the card stands as a symbol of sophistication and luxury, tailored to meet the needs of discerning clientele.

Marion Blyden, Managing Director of Republic Bank British Virgin Islands, expressed enthusiasm for the launch, stating, “As the Caribbean’s premier financial services institution, renowned for tailoring solutions to each of our customer segments, Republic Bank is thrilled to debut the Mastercard Black credit card. Offering a credit card of this status is a first for Republic Bank (BVI) and symbolizes our ongoing dedication to ensuring unparalleled service experiences for our clients.”

The Mastercard Black credit card offers a wealth of elite travel benefits designed to cater to the needs of worldly and sophisticated cardholders. In addition to standard credit card perks and quarterly cashback rewards, cardholders can enjoy exclusive advantages such as purchase protection, MasterRental car rental offers, trip inconvenience coverage, MasterAssist Black for comprehensive travel assistance, luggage protection, and more.

Dalton Fowles, Country Manager for Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and Eastern Caribbean at Mastercard, emphasized the card’s focus on providing seamless payment experiences and impeccable services.

“Our customers expect and deserve seamless payment experiences and impeccable services at their fingertips, allowing them to do more of what they love,” said Fowles. “The launch of our new Black credit card with Republic Bank fulfills that goal, by providing our cardholders with a suite of exclusive benefits that will enhance their sophisticated lifestyles and guarantee them safe and secure transactions every time.”

The Republic Bank Mastercard Black credit card is now available, and eligible individuals can apply through the bank’s website or by contacting their Client Relationship Manager or Sales Officer for more information.

For more information or to apply for this card, interested persons can visit the website at www.republicbankbvi.com or contact their Client Relationship Manager or Sales Officer.

The post Republic Bank Introduces Exclusive Vertical Mastercard Black Credit Card appeared first on Jahphix Television - BVI's #1 NEWS SOURCE.

Established by the Joint Ministerial Council, the dialogue convenes Overseas Territories with key UK Government departments, including HM Treasury, the National Crime Agency, and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. The overarching goal is to address illicit finance and enhance collaboration in combating financial crime.

Minister Smith emphasized the significance of collaboration in combating financial crime, stating, “Financial crime is a scourge across the global financial system… But we also know that the more we work together, the better we are able to defend against these attacks.”

Throughout the past year, areas of focus for the Dialogue included sanctions, law enforcement collaboration, beneficial ownership, and international regulations on illicit finance. Agreement was reached on establishing sanctions units in the Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, and Turks and Caicos, with law enforcement authorities in the Overseas Territories set to receive training on Cryptocurrencies by the UK’s National Crime Agency.

Minister Smith highlighted the active participation of all Overseas Territories in the dialogue and expressed optimism for future engagements between the UK and the Territories.

The dialogue was attended by Government leaders from various Overseas Territories, including Anguilla, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, the Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, Turks and Caicos, and St Helena, along with UK Government Overseas Territories Minister, Hon. David Rutley MP, and Baroness Vere of Norbiton, Parliamentary Under-Secretary at HM Treasury.

As the Cayman Islands Government assumes the role of Co-Chair, Minister Smith affirmed the commitment of the Overseas Territories and the UK to combat financial crime and reinforce the robustness of their financial services sectors.

The Government of the Virgin Islands remains steadfast in its dedication to promoting the overall development of the Territory through commitment and sustainable transformation.

The post Virgin Islands Co-Chairs UK-OT Illicit Finance Dialogue, Celebrates Successful First Year appeared first on Jahphix Television - BVI's #1 NEWS SOURCE.