BVIEC Defends Power Cuts to Bvihsa Clinics
The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) has publicly defended its decision to disconnect power to several BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) clinics due to outstanding debts, amidst a public outcry. Neil Smith, BVIEC's General Manager, elaborated on the measures taken and the challenges faced in recovering debts during an appearance on Talking Points, highlighting the corporation's struggle with non-payment across various sectors.
In a recent development that has stirred extensive discussion among residents, the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) has cut off power to multiple clinics operated by the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) over unpaid bills, igniting a debate on the management of public funds and essential services.
Neil Smith, the General Manager of BVIEC, revealed that the corporation had to take drastic action after several unsuccessful attempts to engage BVIHSA over its significant financial arrears, which had reached a staggering $5.5 million at one point, marking the single largest debt owed to the corporation by any entity.
During the episode of Talking Points on Monday, September 8, 2025, co-host Damion C. Grange, an employee of BVIHSA, questioned Smith on whether BVIEC is taking similar hard stances with other indebted agencies and companies. Smith responded by highlighting the extensive communication efforts BVIEC had initiated with BVIHSA, which he described as largely one-way, emphasizing the necessity of taking action to catch the attention of the debtors.
He pointed out the corporation's responsibility to its own financial obligations, such as salaries, maintenance, and pensions, which are jeopardized by such outstanding debts. Smith clarified that while the disconnection of clinics, including the Iris Penn Smith Clinic in East End, was a measure of last resort, it followed repeated warnings and ignored deadlines.
He assured that affected clinics were equipped with generators, ensuring continuity of care. This step was taken not without prior notice but as a necessary measure after extensive but unsuccessful communication efforts to resolve the financial dispute. The general manager also addressed the broader issue of accounts receivables plaguing BVIEC, noting challenges in collecting payments totaling up to $10 million.
The ongoing financial dispute between BVIEC and BVIHSA raises pressing questions about the prioritization of essential services and the management of public resources. As the community grapples with the repercussions of these disconnections, the emphasis on the necessity of fulfilling financial obligations to maintain essential services remains a critical concern for residents of the British Virgin Islands.
Primary source: BVI News