Virgin Gorda Residents Accuse Government of Neglect
Virgin Gorda residents voiced deep frustration over infrastructure neglect, persistent utility failures, and an apparent lack of government attention during a recent Ninth District meeting. Ninth District Representative Vincent Wheatley faced the crowd alone as the sole Cabinet member present, while attendees questioned the administration's commitment to the sister island.
Residents of Virgin Gorda voiced sharp criticism against the Virgin Islands Party administration during a Ninth District community meeting, accusing the central government of neglecting the sister island's infrastructure and only undertaking rushed repairs ahead of the next general election.
Mary's Episcopal Church Hall, saw Ninth District Representative and Minister for Health and Social Development Vincent Wheatley stand as the only elected government member in attendance. The absence of other Cabinet ministers and Territorial At-Large representatives quickly became a central point of contention for frustrated community members.
Former Director of Tourism and resident Sharon Flax Brutus challenged Wheatley on his solitary presence, remarking that he appeared to be the cheese standing alone. Flax Brutus questioned why other leaders were absent when numerous critical issues fall under different ministerial portfolios.
She also asked where the government's priorities lie regarding Virgin Gorda, questioning whether the island is treated merely as a financial cash cow for the Territory's tourism sector without receiving fair reinvestment. Flax Brutus further criticized the sudden flurry of roadworks and lack of clear timelines, noting that after years of inaction, multiple projects are now being hurried simultaneously without transparent scheduling.
Other attendees echoed similar grievances, expressing frustration with what they described as a nonchalant approach from central authorities. Residents highlighted persistent water shortages, unreliable electricity, poor road conditions, the urgent need for a sewerage treatment plant, and management concerns surrounding The Baths.
In a vivid illustration of the island's infrastructural woes, the church hall suffered a power outage during the session, leaving the remainder of the meeting in darkness. Responding to the community, Wheatley acknowledged that Virgin Gorda should not be plagued by basic utility and infrastructure failures, given its critical economic contribution.
He stated that stable electricity, reliable running water, and quality roads are essential requirements for any premier tourism destination. However, Wheatley pointed to systemic legislative and financial hurdles, arguing that the Territory's national budget fails to adequately reflect Virgin Gorda's unique circumstances.
He noted that he continues to advocate for a special dispensation for the island while navigating the challenge of being a single district representative advocating among thirteen members in the House of Assembly.
Primary source: BVI Platinum