The request, made via WhatsApp, came in the wake of several tragic incidents affecting the healthcare sector in the British Virgin Islands.

Potter made his position clear in a formal statement, rejecting the call to step down. He emphasised that his removal would require legal grounds under the BVI Health Services Authority Act of 2004, which governs the appointment and dismissal of board members. According to Potter, no such grounds exist. “It is not my intention to resign as Chairman, as there are no grounds or reasons for me to do so,” Potter declared, adding that the Act requires due process to be followed.

He further pointed out that the BVIHSA operates independently of central government, and that decisions regarding his removal must be legally justified. The Chairman also addressed media reports suggesting a strained relationship between himself and the Health Minister, noting that he was unaware of any tensions before reading the reports. “If this reporting is true, I was certainly unaware of a strained relationship prior to the articles,” Potter said, distancing himself from claims of discord within the healthcare administration. He also dismissed allegations that he was single-handedly blocking the development of a proposed medical school, calling them “unfounded and without merit.”

Potter’s statement highlighted his dedication to the healthcare system in the Territory. He acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly the lack of a fully staffed BVIHSA board, which has prevented the board from holding critical meetings since July 2024. Despite these setbacks, Potter remains committed to his role, championing several key initiatives, including the completion of the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Center, improvements to hospital and clinic infrastructure, and the establishment of medical and nursing schools.

Potter reaffirmed his commitment to the people of the British Virgin Islands, stressing the importance of a well-functioning healthcare system. “I believe access to a good healthcare system is a fundamental right of the people of this Territory,” he said, urging the community to continue supporting the BVIHSA’s efforts to enhance healthcare services.

It is unclear whether the Minister of Health will pursue further action or attempt to resolve the situation with the Chairman.

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Accompanied by Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Miss Tasha Bertie, Hon. Wheatley will join regional counterparts for discussions centred on regional development and sustainability, under the theme “Regional Development and Sustainability through Quality Education and Social Empowerment.” The meetings will be held from September 10–11.

Hon. Wheatley will also participate in high-level discussions and has been invited to co-chair the Joint Meeting of Human and Social Development and Education Ministers, in his capacity as Chair of the 9th OECS Council of Ministers: Health.

Commenting on the significance of the meetings, Hon. Wheatley highlighted the importance of the three interconnected sectors—education, social development, and health—as key pillars for national progress. “In the Caribbean, especially the OECS region, the synergy between ministries and sectors is not just important; it’s essential for sustainable growth. Each sector, whether focused on health, education, or social development, is critical in our society,” he stated.

Hon. Wheatley stressed that collaboration between these sectors can lead to meaningful progress, saying, “When they work together, we can harness their collective strength, bridging gaps and building a foundation for resilience. Through these types of collaboration, we can effectively address the complex challenges our region faces and ensure a brighter and more sustainable future for our people.”

The 9th OECS Council of Ministers: Human and Social Development aims to share innovative ideas on social empowerment through peer engagement, boosting development on both national and regional levels. The council will review the Social Inclusion and Social Protection Action Plan (2023–2030) and align strategies for social development, with a focus on increasing support for adaptive social protection measures.

Meanwhile, the Joint Council of Ministers: Health, Human & Social Development and Education will explore aligning strategies across these sectors, in line with the OECS Education Strategy and the “Fort-de-France Declaration on Health.” The joint meeting will address regional challenges, promoting collaboration between ministries to create policies for sustainable development and harmonising systems to improve access to education, social, and health services.

In Hon. Wheatley’s absence from the Virgin Islands, Honourable Dr. Karl Dawson will serve as Minister for Health and Social Development. The Ministry of Health and Social Development remains steadfast in its mission to enhance the health and social well-being of the people of the Virgin Islands through forward-thinking policies and strategic regional collaboration.

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The declaration was made during a ceremony held at the Sea Cow’s Bay Methodist Church on May 1.

Minister Wheatley remarked, “This year, as we embark on this month-long journey of appreciation and recognition, we do so under the inspiring theme: Powered by Connections. This theme speaks to the profound impact that our senior citizens have had on our lives, and the interconnectedness that brings us all together as a community.”

He further stated, “These events span social and physical engagements to artistic and entertaining pursuits, providing avenues for personal development, social connectivity, and intellectual stimulation. By participating in these activities, you not only have the chance to forge new relationships and strengthen bonds with existing friends but also to share your wealth of experiences and insights with fellow participants.”

Premier of the Virgin Islands, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, acknowledged the contributions of seniors in the Territory’s history and emphasized the need to ensure their quality of life.

“It is said that you can tell a lot about a society by how it treats its elders. There will also be room for improvement but for the most part, we in the BVI are doing a fairly good job in this area. This comes from our culture and our upbringing,” remarked Honourable Dr. Wheatley.

He added, “We in the BVI recognize the sacrifices and the work of those who have laid the path for us to walk on and the foundations for us to build on. We value and respect their efforts and their achievements, whether it has been in raising us and ensuring our education, creating generational wealth or across the spectrum of national development. In this regard, we are powered by connection; our connection to our seniors.”

Various activities are planned for the month, including intergenerational days, open houses, and cultural events across Tortola and the sister islands.

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During his visit, Governor Pruce delved into discussions about the challenges confronting inmates within the prison system and explored avenues for enhancing rehabilitation and reducing recidivism rates. Key topics included access to education and employment opportunities post-incarceration.

Reflecting on the enriching dialogue, Governor Pruce remarked, “The insights shared by both authorities and the debaters shed light on pressing issues and offered innovative solutions for the future of the prison system.”

Looking ahead, Governor Pruce expressed eagerness to collaborate closely with Minister Vincent O. Wheatley and other government officials to implement the proposed ideas.

Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, echoed Governor Pruce’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of collective efforts in improving prison life and facilitating successful reintegration into society.

In appreciation of the visit, Superintendent of Prison, Mr. Jay Kendall, extended gratitude to Governor Pruce for his commitment to prison reform and acknowledged the diligent efforts of the rehabilitation team in fostering positive change among inmates.

Moving forward, the Ministry of Health and Social Development remains steadfast in its mission to advance prisoner rehabilitation and support their successful transition back into society.

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