BVI Assembly Requests Patience Amidst Salary Increase
The British Virgin Islands House of Assembly faces increased scrutiny over a 119% salary hike for its members, while allegations surface about Auditor General Sonia M. Webster's 77% salary increase. Amid economic challenges, this controversy raises questions about fiscal responsibility and equity within public service compensation.
In a recent development that has stirred considerable debate within the British Virgin Islands (BVI) community, the House of Assembly (HoA) has been at the forefront of a controversy following the approval of a substantial salary increase for its members. Reports from local media outlets on September 17, 2025, highlighted that elected officials secured a 119% pay rise for themselves in late 2023, a move confirmed by the 2024 Audit Report presented to the HoA on September 16, 2025.
This significant adjustment raised the total emoluments from $681,000 to $1,490,652, necessitating an additional $809,652 in budget allocations. The public's reaction to this pay rise has been mixed, with some expressing dismay over perceived fiscal irresponsibility, while others argue the increase is justified, noting that some public servants earn more than HoA members.
The House has promised a thorough review of the audit report's findings and to address concerns through appropriate parliamentary channels, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and accountability. However, a new twist in the tale involves Auditor General Sonia M. Webster, who, in her recent report to the HoA, highlighted the salary increases but omitted any mention of civil servants' adjustments.
Her salary, under the new scale, jumped by 77% at the top end, from a range of $68,764-$100,744 to $115,550-$196,430, surpassing even the Premier's salary range. This revelation, reported by VINO, has sparked accusations of hypocrisy and raised further questions about the equity and justification of public sector salary increases.
The controversy extends beyond the HoA, as it's revealed that many in the public sector, including Managing Directors of statutory bodies like the Financial Services Commission and BVI Airports Authority, now earn more than elected officials. An Opposition member highlighted the personal financial contributions many officials make towards assisting residents, acknowledging public concerns over the salary increases.
This unfolding story highlights a broader dialogue about public official compensation, fiscal management, and public trust within the BVI. As the community awaits more detailed responses from the HoA, the discussion around fiscal restraint, transparency, and equity in public service compensation continues to evolve.
Primary source: VINO