BVI News

Ban on re-entry of work permit holders is because most don’t want to pay for quarantine — Premier

A major reason government placed an indefinite ban on work permit holders returning to the territory is because the majority of those persons don’t want to pay the cost of being mandatorily quarantined for two weeks.

Premier Andrew Fahie gave that indication in a national broadcast Sunday night, August 10. He, however, neglected to note the quarantine costs for ‘hotel/government quarantine’ and how it differs from the cost for ‘home quarantine’ which is roughly $6,000 per traveller.

“No one wants to bear these costs. In fact, they are saying that the BVI taxpayers must bear these costs. Do you think BVIslanders should bear all of these costs?” Premier Fahie questioned.

“Does the employer have any work for those who they have on work permit and are desirous of them returning at this time? Are the employers willing to pay the cost of quarantining their employees who want to return to the BVI? Or are the employees prepared to bear these costs?” he further questioned.

“In addition, the misbehaviour of some individuals who were allowed to return – and not just in the BVI, but in many other countries where they were refusing to self-isolate once they landed — means that measures became necessary to prevent arriving persons from going around and risking everyone else’s life,” Fahie stated.

A second wave of the virus

Besides cost concerns, the leader of government business said barring working permit- and permit exemption holders from re-entering at this time is to prevent a ‘second wave’ of COVID-19 in the BVI.

He said this has been happening in Caribbean countries who he said rushed to reopen their borders.

“So one must ask out loud, is this what we want for the BVI? Is this what we want for ourselves and for our loved ones?” Premier Fahie further questioned while raising other concerns about COVID-19 testing.

No reliable ‘rapid tests’ available

He said persons have been calling on government to ‘immediately reopen its borders’ and for travellers to undergo testing and other protocols upon arrival.

Fahie, however, said the challenge with that proposal is there are no reliable rapid tests available to date. He said the only reliable tests are the lab tests, which are not instant.

“A person can go into a lab and not be confirmed as positive for COVID-19 up to the moment of taking the test and the second they walk out of the lab, they can be exposed to someone who has the virus. So, they will have a certificate saying they have tested negative, but they will be carrying the virus – and some of these persons can land on our doorstep,” the Premier stated.

Borders will reopen at some point

Fahie said the borders will reopen “at some time”. However, plans in that regard are being examined and dates and protocols will be announced soon.

While that is happening, Premier Fahie said: “All the concerns raised above and more are being taken into consideration so that we do not compromise the health and safety of our people of the Virgin Islands while trying to stimulate the tourism sector of our economy. In a few weeks, I will return to you the public with the details of our progress in this area.”

For those who are still in need of employment, the Premier said help is on its way and that persons will not have to wait much longer for subsequent economic stimuli to come into effect.

In the meantime, the Premier, who is also the Finance Minister, pointed out that the territory’s resources are currently scarce. He explained that the focus of his government is ensuring the economy can survive through this pandemic.

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136 Comments

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  1. King liar says:

    When will all these lies stop. First it was because of jobs for locals. Now it’s because people don’t want to pay the 6k. What will it be next?I am soo tired of the constant lying in Jesus name. If you only pay close attention to what these guys have been saying you will soo many holes in their stories that they try to plug whenever a backlash comes. No plans equal loads of lies.

    Like 126
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    • @king liar says:

      You keep off of our Premier because he and his team is doing a DAM good job fighting this corona. All over the world is doing worse than us. Look at what pressure from people like you cause in the Turks & Cacos Islands.

      Like 25
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      • @king liar says:

        U guys are so heartless and without empathy.
        I have been all over the world and the bvi is the only place where I have felt as though I am not respected,valued or wanted and as if I am illegal even tho I had a work permit.
        when everyone start to move on to other countries where they are respected and valued and treated like human beings..u guys from the bvi are going to feel it tremendously..because u guys are just filled with so much hatred towards people who not born in the bvi.
        Sad so sad on so many levels

        Like 66
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        • @U guys are so heartless says:

          Yes, you “have been all over the world” – how many countries have you visited since this COVID-19 has changed how countries have to operate and govern their internal affairs? Persons like yourself feel no respect or value in the BVI, and you generously dish out your disrespect and disdain for the BVI and the people of the BVI. Of course you are free to feel how you wish, but that does not give you the liberty to bash this Territory or its people. Persons with your kind of attitude need to move on to other countries where you are respected – and I seriously wonder where your type of attitude would be welcomed. We had to be born somewhere, just as you were born somewhere.

          Like 10
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          • Sopriziz Nero says:

            We all fail to recognise that we are all one humanity, more so, of African decent. Its wealth and power combined with the confusion that has been inflicted upon us from white supremacy that have us in the lurch that we are now. All our dna trace back to one place. So we should check ourselves before we totally wreck ourselves.

            Like 4
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        • Question says:

          At @king liar, is it true that you or your employer are not desirous of paying the quarantine fees or adhering to the self isolation requirements? Out of curiosity.

      • Shut says:

        Shut u sc**t

      • I said the same thing says:

        How many of the persons who have been allowed in have been charged? This is not an issue. Let in who you choose but stop the lies. As long as these permit holders are legit, let them in. If the fee has to be deducted from their paychecks little by little, so be it. But stop telling lies.

        Like 16
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    • Local says:

      Why whenever or government make a decision that’s in the interest of it’s people , persons that have been given permission to live here have a problem this is the rule and if don’t like it you know what to do go back home we already home nowhere to run to. It’s ok when other country do it but it’s wrong for the BVI this government have a job to look out for it people first.I can’t go and fight for rights in no other Caribbean country never to allow.

      Like 24
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    • Ugggg says:

      The Foy is a c** m** or very s****d or both. He can open the borders to work permit holders but they must quarantine appropriately. This doesn’t mean shutting the border to all. If a permit holder or his employer wants to pay for quarantine then let them do do. Foy is just l***g as he is trying to justify why he is killing the economy and the Territory. It will take years if ever for the Territory to recover from the damage he is doing.

      Like 1
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    • Albion says:

      That makes no sense at all. If some (or even most) work permit holders won’t pay for quarantine, then you simply don’t allow those people back in. That doesn’t mean you ban *everybody*, including those who are willing to pay.

      Like 4
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    • Observing says:

      I wonder who provides the intel to the Premier. They should be fired! They read too many Anansi stories when they were young. Again, he presents unverified arguments and uses it as the basis of decisions which has zero logic. The trust is declining rapidly. Remember the reason for NDP’s reign was they appeared to have some better form of wisdom. Even the mere appearance of having wisdom will go a long way. Gone are the days when people accept everything out of one’s mouth as gospel before considering its truthfulness and logic. Please consider that next time. To the permit holders who have been affected, I empathise with you and encourage you to challenge what is truth. We need to hear from you to understand what the real problem is. Is there a problem with footing the bill and adhering to the isolation rules as the premier has suggested?

      Like 4
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    • V says:

      The real and sad truth is, there is something terribly wrong with this country, isn’t there? Cruelty and injustice, intolerance and oppression are certainly on the increase. And where our constitution seems to have once given us the freedom to object, to think and speak as we saw fit, there are now censors, threats of victimization, and systems of surveillance coercing our conformity and soliciting our submissions.
      How did this happen?
      Who’s to blame?
      Well certainly there are those more responsible than others, and they must be held accountable, but then again, if truth must be told, if we’re looking for the guilty, we need only look into a mirror!!!!

      Like 2
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  2. Anonymous says:

    You expect people to pay that ridiculous price for quarantine minister?..yall need to consider work permit holders at all cost before yall economy comes crashing down soon!..PEOPLE’S BELONGINGS,kids,home and poof we just get locked out.so unfair omg

    Like 72
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    • @anonymous says:

      Go home and take whoever you want to return to the BVI with you. Let our gov do their job. It’s that simple.

      Like 14
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    • bvi islander says:

      well stay put in your country if you dont want pay your bill, simple no one send call you nothing better than home sweet home fighting this pandemic that going on around the world. the premier doing a hell of a good job rush to open the borders for what strupes you cant please everyone . next .

      Like 9
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    • Oh please says:

      Locals and belongers pay the same quarantine fee

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  3. Case by case says:

    So people should be able to apply to come back then if they have a valid work permit and either they or their employer is willing to pay the quarentine fee. Case by case basis not a blanket ban.

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  4. Edmund says says:

    This makes no sense – why ban all work permit holders – if some are prepared to pay the $6k then why not let them come back.
    The average security guard is paid minimum wage – $6 per hour. $6 x 24 hrs x 14 days is $2,016. The security companies are charging over $6k. Crazy rip off BVI – it makes even the taxi drivers fares, and the rip off food prices, seem reasonable.

    Like 74
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    • Liza says:

      It makes a lot of sense. If you are on work permit and have all the skills you are claiming, your employer would definitely want to keep you, so they would be happy to pay for your quarantine. Good move Hon. Premier. Too much advantage.

      Like 20
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      • @Liza says:

        If a person has a work permit and has been working in the BVI then they are paying taxes just like any local no? What is the Premier’s point about asking whether it’s fair for BVI Taxpayers to foot the bill. Permit holders that are already working but happened to get caught outside of the Territory for whatever reason, are not BVI Taxpayers too?

        Like 69
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      • @liza says:

        That is exactly my point – there is no reason to stop persons coming in who are paying for their own quarantine at home. However, the new policy has stopped that! Only Belongers and Long Term Residents are allowed to quarantine at home (and they have to pay the cost themselves).

        Like 7
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    • I wonder says:

      if the fees for those that have already returned and been through the quarantine process have been recovered.
      Many have not been billed.
      Will they ever be?

    • KYC says:

      Who owns/holds shares in the security companies?

      Like 31
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    • GTFOH says:

      @Edmund, The security guard isn’t going to feed or shelter them. There is a hotel fee for 14 days and 3 meals per day. There is no more quarantine at home. When doing an estimate you should always go higher than the average because it is better to have too much that too little. You would make a terrible boss or just assuming they are being paid minimum wage to deflate numbers.

      Like 13
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    • Since When Security Dat Expensive? says:

      It is often said that “Unusual times call for unusual measures”. First of all is this a part of the 1000 jobs in 1,000 days scheme? Next thing, is it the S*****r”s Security Company charging this kind of money? Next thing, the clause in the Constitution addresses the situation of government officials disclosing the businesses they are involved.
      A former speaker of the house sometime prior to 2007; maybe 2003 choose to step down; as he was renting a floor of his Building to the Tourist Board. Why” CONFLICT of Interest as unauthorised by the constitution. Just thinking of the situation with Quarantining because of Covid-19 and the huge built-in money-making security opportunity, I can think of reasons why opening the borders and quarantining homecoming individuals might drag on and on indefinitely. Why? Conflict of interest.

    • living wage says:

      Where did you get $6? The average security guy is $16-$18 an hour – which is $6k for 14 days

      Like 2
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      • ??? says:

        $6 ph is what the security guard is paid – $16-$18 ph is what the security company charges for him. $8-$10 ph is the profit the security company makes.

        Like 12
    • So says:

      Why the dont he give the choice to who could afford it

      Like 4
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    • Hi says:

      Its just a few work permit holders out there 98% are still in the BVI so all this raving and ranting is just for a few people who happens to get locked out fir various reasons. It not the entire work force that get locked out.

      Like 4
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  5. Mad Max says:

    Does he think only BVIslanders have paid tax? The majority of the tax he is spending is raised from non Belongers.

    He is trying to justify something with no merit so just clutching at straws.

    Like 81
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    • Ken says:

      BVIslanders pay tax too. It is far from the truth that the “majority of the tax he is spending is raised from non Belongers.” It is then thats too bad. The majority of the stimulus packages are given to non-belongers too, so that is a benefit from your taxes. It is unfair for the BVI to be handing out work permits like peas in a packet, then be expected to carry work permit holders on its back. That means the reasons for issuing work permits are invalid. People expect too much from the BVI. Do some research and see how many other countries do what is expected of the BVI.

      Like 17
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      • @Ken says:

        Every WP holder pays tax.
        Not every BVIslander pays tax.

        Every BVIslander had their quarantine paid for.
        No WP holder is having their quarantine paid for (not allowed in).

        The money being spent is raised via taxes.

        Like 17
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        • Really says:

          not every WP holder pay taxes. Where did you get that idea. People are issued work permits and Labour, Immigration, social security and NHI have no clue who they are working for. They work odd jobs and get paid every penny charged and pay no taxes.

          Like 7
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      • Most tax in the BVI is paid by work permit holders says:

        There is no doubt about that!

        Like 7
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        • Revenues says:

          The majority of BVI revenue is paid for by people outside the BVI.

          Then the majority of the rest is paid for by non-Belongers through work permit fees and tax.

          Then import duty.

          Then the Belongers not employed by the government (other than the self employed).

          Then the self employed BVI Belongers who all somehow earn minimum wage (how much do taxi drivers pay in tax compared to earnings?).

          The revenue is then used to employ Belongers in the civil service and fees the cookie jar.

          Like 5
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      • @Ken says:

        #1 Work Permit Holders pay a percentage fee of of their annual income each year to get that permit renewed…added to an un-going fee for the card machine that is more times not working that it ever is…so work permits are not handed out like peas..
        #2 Income tax, Social Security & NHI are all deducted from employees pay each pay period… If Employers haven’t paid them in..who should be held accountable?
        #3 The Covid Stimulus came from Social Security Board… again..work permit holders have paid their dues.
        #4 You’d be surprised how many self employed local businesses havent paid in taxes, SS nor NHI for themselves, much less their employees

        If the quarantine fee was across the board for nationals and non-nationals, we would not be here with this argument. But to blatantly ask if BVIslanders must pay for work permit holders?? Incorrect… its discriminatory..
        Also, even if work permit holders are willing to pay this cost… then whats the other excuse that will be fed to us??

        Like 15
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    • Fenty says:

      It must be understood that these are some of the consequences for migrating on a work permit, so why all the fuss about.

      Like 2
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  6. WTF? says:

    So work permit holders are not BVI tax payers too? Has this man lost his f***ing mind?

    Like 33
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    • @WTF says:

      This is the first time I am seeing non nationals trying to fight a country to force them back in to work when their are so many persons looking jobs. This is real bullying.

      Like 20
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      • Nonsense says:

        It has nothing to do with forcing anything. People are desperate as for many of them BVI is their home where their family, belongings etc. are so you expect them to just sit back and relax as if nothing is happening? There are situations where husbands/wife/kids have been separated since March. People are not forcing the Government to do anything, most people understand the seriousness of COVID. However the constant goal post changes and flat out toying with the truth by the administration is what is stressful! If they cannot come until December, TELL THEM SO!!!!! Stop playing games with people’s lives whether they’re from here or not. Persons that are work permit exempted are either married to locals or have been in BVI from lower school age and this is how we treat them as well? People just want some information and clarity on certain things, I don’t think anyone wants to put BVI at risk or force the Government to do anything. But as usual the Government has NO PLANS which is why all the confusion has come about.

        Like 37
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        • Hmmm says:

          It is indeed forcing. I am not by any means endorsing this administration’s decision. However, it is a matter of national security and the administration has a right to protect its citizens.

          I am a bVIslander and unfortunately I too was a victim of the restriction that was put in place in March with the border closure. I couldn’t recalled making such a fuss about been locked out.

          People need to start respecting the government’s decisions as having a work permit, or living here for a long time doesn’t by no means gives anyone an entitlement to be here….such entitlement is reserved to BVIslanders. Like it or hate it.

      • You says:

        Your are notthing but a farm ffool

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  7. BVI says:

    WE WANT THE VIP GONE

    Like 31
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    • Hilda says:

      Yes. When we cannot get our way, we want everybody gone. The Government of a country is responsible for looking out for its citizens first.

      Like 6
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  8. BVI says:

    WE WANT THE VIP GONE

    Like 28
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  9. I wish says:

    I just wish that the non Virgin Islanders would stay out of the BVI way of handling the pandemic. Smh

    Like 15
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  10. vip heckler says:

    From dictator to flip-flopper

    Like 18
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  11. The real reason says:

    Why doesn’t he just admit that it’s because of hatred and bigotry and call it a day. He isn’t fooling anyone.

    Like 42
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    • That’s what you want to hear says:

      You people are more ignorant now than ever.

      Thank God the majority knows it’s not hatred but common sense.

      Why should all tax payers foot the quarantine bill.

      Let’s do it the foolish way then – open the borders, no quarantine for anyone, or if you quarantine stay in any hotel you like and eat and drink whatever you like and just send the bill to Government and tax payers will bear all costs.

      Like 7
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  12. Bystander says:

    With all the revenue the BVI has had1990 to 2007; it is surprising there are not more public funds available; and surprising there aren’t so many professionally qualified Belongers, that work permit holders would be the exception rather than the back bone of BVI economy. No work permit holders, no economy.

    Separately, this reason advanced for the ban makes no sense.

    Like 29
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  13. Wow says:

    I own a house in Bvi and can’t go back????
    Ridiculous. People don’t buy in BVI IT’S A RIP OFF

    Like 33
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  14. Lost Lemon says:

    Better to look like a fool, rather than open your mouth and erase all doubt!

    Like 18
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  15. ...... says:

    Why not allow them to quarantine at home if it’s deemed safe to do so? They can have someone examine the home to make sure it’s appropriate.

    Like 24
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    • ....... says:

      Because it’s a MONEY MAKING SCHEME disguised as safety protocols!!!!!

      Like 49
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      • Big $$s in Tragedy says:

        Of course this whole thing is a Money-making scheme. What else can you call? Years ago Funerals weren’t money making businesses to. It was something that had to be done.

        Like 2
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  16. Chief says:

    Dear Mr. Premier,

    In the future, please ensure that these decisions are carefully discussed and thought out. It would appear that your reason for implementing this measure changes as it faces tough and increasing scrutiny. With that said, you should also be reminded that expats are not exempted from paying taxes. Hence, your argument about the cost falling solely on tax paying BVIslanders needs some further clarification. We know that these are trying times and difficult decisions must be made, but some of your rhetoric is fueling the anti-migrant sentiments being made during this pandemic. Thank you for your brave leadership.

    Like 36
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  17. WAIT says:

    This article is malicious because it twist what the Premier said in his speech last evening.

    Like 4
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  18. Wow says:

    Hey FAHIE look at pockwood, this is what the world ? will see and remember of THE BVI. You are killing your country

    Like 22
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  19. New says:

    Hey FAHIE look at pockwood, this is what the world ? will see and remember of THE BVI. You are killing your country

    Like 10
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  20. People says:

    Premier stand your ground. Don’t let these selfish bad minded people mash up our beautiful BVI.

    Like 14
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    • Frustrated says:

      In all honesty, the expats have also helped to build the BVI, we should never deny that, good gracious man.

      I believe as our people used to work in Santo Domingo and to the best of my knowledge they were not hostile to us, why can’t we show some compassion to others. I pray that God does not judge us on this for being so uncaring.

      Like 20
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  21. Islander says:

    The more you speak Mr premier the more nonsense coming out your mouth, why not charge everybody if that’s the case bvi’s too!! You taking tax payers money to pay for them, you really full ah c**p

    Like 22
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  22. Do what you must says:

    Premier, do what you must to keep us safe.
    You cannot please everyone. We don’t want COVID to come back in the BVI so do what you must.

    Like 16
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    • Frustrated says:

      Does anyone in this country believe that covid can be kept out forever. Our economy is dying without our beloved Tourism. We have to let people in and implement plans on how we will strategically do it so that the economy can get going. People just be reasonable.

      Like 5
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  23. Another lie again says:

    Another lie. Even if this was true when ban everybody? There are some I’m sure who can pay for their own security etc. This is another afterthought lie.

    Like 11
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  24. New says:

    Keep you safe? They killing you slowly at the moment LOOK AT POCKWOOD TODAY BURNING FIBERGLASS BOAT ⛴

    Like 16
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  25. Smh says:

    Every day is a different excuse. If that really is the reason then remove the ban and allow those you can and are willing to pay come in. Bunch of fart. That is an exorbitant fee. Why not give those who can’t afford the option of using NHI or SS to pay All or at least part of that fee? After all they have been paying into those schemes and it should benefit them in some way. Better yet refund them some of their work permit fees for the period they’ve been locked out and couldn’t work. They can put that towards it as well. At least give the people options. I’ll wait a few days to hear the next excuse.

    Like 17
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  26. Meh Son says:

    This take is very disingenuous. The premier stated: “No one wants to bear these costs. In fact, they are saying that the BVI taxpayers must bear these costs. Do you think BVIslanders should bear all of these costs?”

    Taxpayers are not all BVIslanders. Work permit holders pay taxes too. In fact there might be more taxpaying work permit holders than BVIslanders.

    Like 25
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  27. The Nation says:

    BVI taxpayers does not equal BVIslander taxpayers. The fact is the majority of the workforce is expat and therefore expat are as much and maybe more taxpayers than BVIslanders. Please do not twist and mince words

    Like 21
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  28. The Nation says:

    Blame the BVI Belongers who initially came back and were breaking the protocols for home quarantine. This is really sad.

    Like 23
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  29. GTFOH says:

    This might be harsh but must be said. All the people that are giving their expert advice on BVI issues should talk to the leaders of their home country. Most of them are on the travel alert “black list” for multiple countries. There is a reason why the BVI is regarded as a safe zone for travelers and it’s because our Premier put the safety of it’s citizens and residents before the economy or pleasure of impatient and selfish people.

    No matter how much tax anybody is paying it’s not enough to bring a loved one back to life after they’re dead. You people are just selfish hiding behind the cloak of being a humanitarian. When the Premier was under pressure for fast tracking the residency and belongership he was the greatest man that ever lived because it benefitted you now because things go against you he is the worst. This is the selfish nature of human beings on display. They love you when you give them but the minute you say no you’re the devil.

    Everybody should have an opinion in a democracy but the criticism has turned into insulting the BVI and it’s people just because the Premier is doing his job in his country. Most of the people complaining are putting selfishness over reason. Their only concern is about their want not about the other residents. Locking out working permit holders temporarily isn’t discrimination in the negative sense of the word because everywhere in the world has rules that affect expats and citizens differently even in their homeland but too many people ignore that and come into the BVI trying to mould the BVI into what they want it to be.

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    • @GTFOH says:

      It’s like bragging about having the cleanest kitchen when nobody uses it at all!!

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      • GTFOH says:

        The 30’000 or so residents that are still here are using the kitchen every day and we don’t need any house guest to dirty the dishes.

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    • Concerned says:

      The fast track was a money scheme and so is this. Do u know the meaning of humanitarian? Bleeding money from one set of people. Be careful how u all kick the prick.
      Be very careful!!!

      Like 1
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  30. Changing stories says:

    This is incredibly frustrating. First, we were told the ban was put in place because a work permit holder in quarantine tested positive for covid.

    Then we were told that the ban was in place because locals needed jobs, especially 300 high school graduates. This overlooks the fact that qualifications to be doctors, lawyers, accountants take years to obtain.

    Now we are being told that expats dont want to pay for quarantining.

    Changing stories, changing reasons. Just one common thread: that the expats unlucky enough to be stuck outside of the BVI are being punished by not being let back in. This isnt about protecting the island from covid, it is about exploiting those that live in and care about the BVI, enough to call it their home. This is so shortsighted and disheartening.

    Like 29
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    • Work permit holder in Quarantine says:

      Never once has the government said a work permit holder in quarantine tested postive. Seems to me you listen to gossip on the street.

      It has always been said that the lady in quarantine that testsd positive was a belonger that is believed to have travelled from Santo Domingo. A simple google search would turn up articles with this information.

      I wish some of you would stick to facts and intellectual arguments when posting and stop involving these street gossips ya hear that never really accurate. Strupes. It frustrates the rest of us who come on here to see a sensible debate.

  31. Premier says:

    Dear Andrew, Kindly note that it does not require 14days for the Virus to appear in your system it only take 2 to 7days which reduce your quarentine bill significantly. You should seek that infirmation from your Expert Cuban Doctors unless you have an hidden agenda with the Security Companies.

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  32. Incredible says:

    The Premier just says things without any kind of proof of anything. He continues to do it because we continue to allow him to get away with it. Two days ago it was because of jobs for locals which was not presented with any evidence or plan. Because of the uproar two days later it’s because the expats don’t want to pay for quarantine costs etc. Again not one shred of evidence presented to substantiate what he is saying. This is all incredible!

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  33. Umm says:

    What lie is this.I am locked out and no one ever asked me if I want to pay or not so how can they say we dont want to pay when i was never asked the question.

    Like 16
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  34. Bvi tax payers says:

    Mr. Premier all of those locked out are BVI tax payers too, so what you really saying???

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  35. Still the same says:

    Just remind everyone, BVI Tax Payers ALSO INCLUDE EXPATS.

    Like 12
    Dislike 3
  36. Overboard says:

    I feel for those few expats and exemption holders who are locked out. Everything is going against you guys, stay safe guys until they let you in to reunite with your family and friends.

    Like 19
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  37. Triple F. says:

    F.t. F..k F.h.i.

    Your lies are almost as big as your body!!!

    Like 9
    Dislike 7
  38. Anonymous says:

    Borders open. Visitors up on arrival get tested go to a hotel or guest house must get a taxi for 2 days until test results return they get that call to freedom of other wise,. No one h a negative test will.spend no more than 2. 3. Days in Quarantine. This Model all most everyone in the industry benefits, Taxis, hotels, Guest houses,. Restaurants, Food only can be ordered and be delivered.. Service charge must be added, Family cAn provide food….We can even add a token to cover testing, 30. To. 40 dollars per passenger…. Simple as ABC..of course mask is musk.

    Like 6
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  39. HEAR IT says:

    VIP, DO YOU FEAR YOUR CREATOR OF HEAVEN AND EARTH? YOUR DEEDS ARE WITH PARTIALITY WHICH GOD HATES. DO JUSTLY, LOVE MERCY AND WALK HUMBLY BEFORE YOUR CREATOR. REMEMBER WHAT HAPPENED TO JUDAH IN THE BOOK OF JEREMIAH THE PROPHET. THEY OPPRESS THE STRANGERS, WIDOWS AND ORPHANS. TAKE CARE OF YOUR WORK PERMIT AND EXEMPTED ONES. THEY WERE PLACE UNDER YOUR CARE.

    Like 7
    Dislike 5
  40. wow says:

    Co****tion at its best. guy will not be reelected so pocking all the $ and enjoying the power he can while in office. All those who vacation in BVI now going to St John and STT. Charter companies already looking to build bases there. Damage done to tourism industry will take a decade to fix.

  41. Frustrated says:

    Does anyone in this country believe that covid can be kept out forever. Our economy is dying without our beloved Tourism. We have to let people in and implement plans on how we will strategically do it so that the economy can get going. People just be reasonable.

    Like 7
    Dislike 2
  42. ummmm yeah says:

    SO wait what tax is being paid from an expats payroll and NHI tax that is removed monthly from their salaries? Are Expats then to not considered BVI taxpayers since they are indeed paying the same tax that we are?? if they are landholders they have to pay a landholder fee and tax… Would this not make them BVI Taxpayers too? I mean yes there is a hefty cost for all these things needed for quartine but flip-flopping on what the reason it won’t help anyone. And this latest reason seems just a hard-pressed as the last one., since anyone who lives and works in the BVI pays tax……

    Like 9
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  43. Disenfranchised says:

    We the 80% majority of the BVI who are not Belongers need to stand up and assert our rights. We need a political group to align behind to represent our rights. We are being treated like endentured servants. We need to invoke the spirit of rebellion and revolt and stand up. This apartheid system has gone on long enough. NO TAXATION WITHOUT REPRESENTATION.

    Like 14
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  44. Doh says:

    BVI is fast becoming like North Korea…

    It has adopted an isolationist policy promoting nationalism, xenophobic fear mongering, and lack of intelligent and prudent fiscal measures to restart the economy. As we see now, the economy is teetering on a very real collapse.

    Without a comprehensive and thoughtful economic plan, the BVI will fail. Yes, I predict very dire consequences within general the next three months. The country cannot remain closed to tourism as so much is based upon foreign cash and spending. Without foreign capital, citizens both belonger and expat will have no monies to spend. Distribution and supplies will become scarce and prices will rise. Government will step in and try to fix prices as they do in a socialist administration like this one. Suppliers will lose further money as they cannot profit or buy more products, so they close shop. Think of Venezuela and it becomes very real as foreigners, upper class, and those with means flee. The downward spiral continues more.

    So continue to watch my friends. Watch as we all suffer due to poor decisions made by individuals who know nothing of how to think for the future. Only the now.

    Like 20
    Dislike 4
    • @ Doh says:

      If you really believed what you were saying, you’d be making plans to ditch BVI for the next better place. So even you don’t believe what you say.

      Like 3
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      • People Packing says:

        Wait for the backlash and fallout. We see people packing to leave. Expat businesses closing and taking their jobs with them. You will see, come next “season” how this affects the local economic structure. Too much arrogance and entitlement around this place. There are plenty of locations with blue water and white sand. If you won’t welcome the Expat community, they will call another place home, and take their income, spending and community enrichment with them.

        Like 1
        Dislike 1
        • Whereever says:

          there exist a packer, there will be be an unpacker waiting to take up a business opportunity left open. The hate, wanting to see the BVI fail, doom and gloomers will never rise to reason, but will reain mired in unreason.

  45. To Disenfranchised says:

    Stop bullying BVI and its people, and look for ways to build up your country. Have any of you all work permit holders who are vex with the BVI considered running for office in your own country? Something tells me that you all would do very well. Imagine that you could be an minister or leader of a political party, rather than be a work permit beggar in another country. Where is your self esteem and self worth? You could be a king or queen in your homeland whether it be UK, Canada, USA, St Vincent, St Kitts, Dominica Trinidad, Antigua, Australia, South Africa, Asia, Jamaica, Santo Domingo, Barbados – wherever you were born and yet here you are picking virtual fights and bullying others. You problem isn’t BVI. Your problem is you don’t have goals.

    Like 7
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    • Concerned says:

      Why don’t u run and see how long u last. We building our countries you all got a problem with lines outside western union. Now you premier add 7% tax who is bullying who. Its just a matter of time. Roman wasn’t built in a day. We eating crumbs you all still have a problem because we know how to spend our monies. Take your time the tables are about to turn. Be sure to sign your name so when u come begging for a job it would be my pleasure to hire u . We are all God’s creation. I will treat u as such.

      Like 1
      Dislike 2
    • Octagon says:

      “Work permit beggar”? You have just lowered and disgraced yourself in the most profound way. Express your thoughts frankly, yes, but engage in such dehumanizing of anyone or group is relegating yourself to scum level. Please, rise to the human level. You’ve obviously pushed yourself below that. You need prayers!!!

  46. BVI TO THE BONE says:

    Look you all need to just stop. Half off them send 80% of they money back way they come from, nothing wrong with that. They send it way the is now. Why should I a BVI lander pay for you all
    When all this started they ran back way they come from and now that we are keeping our self in check and or family’s safe, they want to come back.
    They money they sent home must be running low so they want to come back to the cash cow which is us BVI.
    The thing that is killing me is this covid 19 they can contract it on the way to the BVI.
    The BVI landers that coming back born here have mother father so the Government dont have to foot the heavy cost, but when the work permit holders come back way they going stay? Meson look they need to cool it and stay way they is, if they wanted to stay they was to and not run back to they safe home way they money was going.

    Like 5
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  47. Hm says:

    So whats the actual breakdown of 6000$ for 2 weeks? Luxury caviar and champers for breakfast?

    Like 3
    Dislike 2
  48. Deh Watcha says:

    I would like to see a full breakdown of that $6k.

    Like 4
    Dislike 1
    • @ Whats new says:

      Thanks for the link, but you forgot to highlight this part of the article:

      “The 14-day stay costs around $2,600.” Serious difference between that and the $6,000 being mentioned here.

      Like 5
      Dislike 1
      • Also says:

        Actual first of all we need to ensure all facts are there… So let me say that 2,600 is in CI. If you follow you would know the CI is valued at more than the US dollar. So in US its $3250. Secondly, they are using a state facility. I do not believe we have such a facility available and the government here has to pay private establishments. Thirdly, I honestly do not think it matters whether the cost was low or high. There are many expats that simply refuse to pay to quarantine as they believe they should not have to and should be on equal footing to locals because “they pay more tax”.

  49. Haters says:

    keep the funk off our priemer ungrateful….set of germs

    Like 4
    Dislike 10
  50. @ning says:

    listen just send these mf home and stop hurting u head with another uneasary problem we got to much other issues then there do fk boasting and ungrateful. Drown these dm animals

    Like 2
    Dislike 6
  51. Windy says:

    “I bahn here” will be the only ones left in the BVI so who is going to work and pay taxes ?

    Like 2
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  52. hmmm says:

    u can see why them bvi people don’t like them island people..themm to dama tomuch of there self

  53. Why says:

    Why do they have to pay and belongers getting it free?? Why??

    Like 6
    Dislike 4
  54. Wow says:

    Too many lies! There are so many persons lined up willing to pay for the quarantine but they can’t because of the new stupid ban. The Government is buying time hoping for vaccine or treatment because like everything else they have no plans. Look at how they changed the traffic flow without any plans and now it’s pure confusion. Same with schools and everything else they do, play by ear and hope for the best, no plans at all.

    Like 6
    Dislike 2
    • Well says:

      Well let them come forward because from what I have also seen on social media most have commented that they should not have to pay and were quite irate with the suggestion that they would have to…

  55. lol says:

    I baaaawn here …whiners

    Like 1
    Dislike 2
  56. Be careful says:

    Sometimes we Hang ourselves and we don’t even realize it . We have to be careful what we ask for and we will get what we ask for it is just a matter of time hope we can Handle the repercussions

  57. Local says:

    Sooooo…basically the Premier is saying that the Belongers coming in would not bring in the virus…however the expats would bring the virus in? LMAO! We are ready for elections…

    Like 10
    Dislike 3
  58. Cross the floor says:

    The VIP’s support is dying due to all these idiotic statements and stupid policies. Time to dissolve the HOA and have a snap election.

    Like 9
    Dislike 4
  59. See says:

    YOU are so full of crap . The people who broke quaranteen were two horny ladies with famous belonger last names so stop dealing BS to the people. And stop the human trafficing of ladies between St Croix and the BVI while the marine police are paid to turn a blind eye .

    Like 1
    Dislike 2
  60. GIVE US THIS DAY OUR DAILY BREAD says:

    Mr. Wheatley in your interview with JTV yesterday you stated two things your hold to: GOD and CONSCIOUNCE. Does not your consciounce provoke you not to take away the daily bread of your brother and sister the stranded work permit and exempted ones? Does your God approve that. HE SAID GIVE US THIS DAY OUR DAILY BREAD. NOT Give us this day the bread of my neighbour.

    Like 3
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  61. LIT says:

    Weather you from here, have a valid work permit wa ever…… the borders do not need to be open now. Look how many people in the usvi have this so called virus…. right next to home. Borders open up then what????? Listen people trying find excuses for the easy way out. Wen everyone is allowed to come in and you who wanted them to come in gets sick then wha u going say? Or blame? Stop bashing the premiere who just trying to save his country. We doing things here wa ga we in so much better position then else where in the world. Yes people still need work. I myself been out of work since March but wa, God is good and has been working out a way. People need to stop and see the big picture. Do we really wan flood the bvi with people who sick? Then we the locals get sick and all we going do is suffer more. Jah knows there is always a bigger picture. Try find it. I lost my job cause of covid. Gov aint finding me a job. If you stuck out the bvi due to covid the bvi gov dont have to allow u back in. Simple. N i from here! Its not the premiere fault all this happened he jus doing what a leader does…. i have friends outside the bvi that have permits. They smart and they dont even wan step foot on a plane. Regardless of family or belongings they not coming here.

    Like 3
    Dislike 4
  62. Honestly says:

    After all this time and all the stress do you really think a work permit holder would not obey quarantine? If they do deport them and use their bond to pay for it. Simple and fair. A be longer has no fear of reprisals! Work permit holders are quite used to jumping through hoops and obeying the rules and regulations.

    Like 2
    Dislike 2
  63. Sopriziz says:

    All what’s happening is because of a lack of ungodliness. We in the days of Sodom and Gomorrah even worst. Whereby majority of these world leaders done bow down to the Vatican and its principles. Whole lotta kuffars infidels and antichrist demonstraters.

  64. Sopriziz says:

    The lies won’t stop now so easy. It’s the era of the great deception we in.

    Like 1
    Dislike 1
  65. Simple as says:

    Work permit holders have to go through lots of different hurdles to live and work in the BVI. Adding another one i.e. the need to comply with quarantine, is one more that most would agree to, particularly if accountable and ensures they remain in the BVI. It would also be easy to set out the requirements so it could be determined if compiled with. As with Cayman, there should be some obligations placed on the employers so responsibility is shared out. This seems like an easier way to look at things to ensure protections and safeguards are in place for the BVI.

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