Wheatley: Vanterpool, Penn Can't Criticise
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has rejected criticism from Opposition Leader Marlon Penn and former legislator Mark Vanterpool, saying both men had years in government to address the issues they now raise. Speaking on ZBVI radio, he defended his administration's record and pointed to infrastructure, social and education initiatives as evidence of progress amid several major challenges.
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has pushed back sharply at criticism from Opposition Leader Marlon Penn and former legislator Mark Vanterpool, saying neither man is in a position to fault his administration given their long tenures in government. In an interview on ZBVI radio, Dr Wheatley noted that Vanterpool was first elected in 1999 and served for more than two decades, while Penn entered the House of Assembly in 2011. "I don't think they are in a position to criticise me," the Premier said, arguing both had ample opportunity to resolve problems they now highlight ahead of the next general election.
The Premier singled out the territory's persistent sewage problems, particularly in parts of the Seventh and Eighth districts, as an example of issues left unaddressed by previous administrations. He said funding had been available in the past but was directed elsewhere, contributing to the ongoing challenge facing residents in affected communities.
Dr Wheatley also questioned why earlier governments failed to advance plans to extend Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) despite years of discussion. While acknowledging the airport required a longer-term solution, he said his administration is proceeding with a short runway extension and asked voters to consider why earlier plans were not delivered when those opponents were in office.
Defending his government's road rehabilitation programme, the Premier rejected suggestions progress has been too slow. "It's going to take a little more time when you fix the roads properly," he said, contrasting comprehensive rebuilding work with quick resurfacing that can deteriorate rapidly.
The Premier listed recent and planned measures he said distinguish his administration: salary increases for public officers, planned pension increases, a higher minimum wage, renewable-energy projects in Anegada, the establishment of the BVI's first medical school, and the announcement that H.
Lavity Stoutt Community College will become a four-year degree-granting institution. Dr Wheatley conceded that progress has not been as fast as he would like, but urged voters to consider the context: post-hurricane recovery, the COVID-19 pandemic, the Commission of Inquiry and the associated threat of direct UK rule, plus global inflation driven by international conflicts.
He said those factors have complicated delivery but argued his government has nonetheless advanced key priorities. With a general election on the horizon, residents can expect continued debate over infrastructure, public-service pay and education reforms. The Premier said the electorate should weigh his administration's record against the long span of time previous leaders had to act when making their choice.
Primary source: BVI News