Gov’t exploring unemployment insurance — Wheatley
Minister of Health & Social Development, Vincent Wheatley said the government plans to introduce unemployment insurance, addressing a notable gap in the BVI’s Social Security framework.
The initiative, which aims to support unemployed residents, is part of broader efforts to modernise social protections in the territory.
“We are also looking at how to get unemployment insurance in place. I think all these things are in the pipeline,” Wheatley stated while addressing the House of Assembly during the recent budget debate.
He acknowledged the challenges of implementing such a system but emphasised its importance, especially in light of ongoing economic pressures and natural disasters that often disrupt livelihoods.
Currently, the BVI lacks unemployment benefits, leaving residents without financial support if they become jobless. According to the Social Assistance in the British Virgin Islands Review, key social protection gaps include the absence of unemployment insurance, child-related benefits, and adequate long-term care for vulnerable groups.
Determined to deliver
While acknowledging that the initiative may be complex and challenging, he expressed the government’s determination to deliver.
“These things, if they were easy, would have happened a long time ago, but we’re going to bring these things into place,” Wheatley assured.
The proposed unemployment insurance would not only address individual financial needs but also strengthen the territory’s disaster preparedness. The BVI is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and economic shocks, as evidenced by the devastation caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. These events left many residents without jobs or homes, highlighting the need for robust safety nets.
In addition to unemployment insurance, Wheatley reiterated the government’s commitment to social protection reform under the Social Protection Act, which aims to consolidate various social assistance programmes and improve their transparency and effectiveness.
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This seems like a good idea, but the devil is in the details. Where is the money coming from for this proposed program? Voter rolls show about 16,000 voters (presumably Belongers). Say 25§ are retired. So, 12,000 in the work force. Assume 5% unemployed, so 240 without work. At $2,000/month each (difficult to live on that here), works out to about $ 500 annual tax on the 11,760 employed Belongers, not factoring administration costs, so call it $1,000 a year unemployment tax. However, if the median salary is $ 2,000 that tax represents half a month’s salary. How palatable would that be? There is also the issue of taxes withheld by some employers that never get forwarded.
The $2,0000 per month payout from?
Why does this sound familiar (NHI)? Another Ponzi Scheme in its genesis being toyed with by the government that does not have a clue what they are doing.
Whoever advises these idiots need to be bullwhipped by the roundabout.
Another source of revenue for this government to “borrow” from.
No more sir!
NHI- Now Higher Income (For politician and crownies)
Walwyn want it fix so he can get his cut.
Who benefited the most?
V who bled the ponzi scheme that had no cap on benefits paid out to his business. That was the major error. You had a man making over 60 million dollars all because NHI did not put a cap on what should be paid for services from NHI.
They raped us.
You all let them do it , The used slight of hand and misdirection and you all fell for it blaming the wrong person until this Minister brought the truth to light.Now you are all mad ? You should be mad at the Sister who were quick to run to the Governer but now have NOTHING to say. Start to learn to not believe surface BS and do due diligence. This publication is complicit in the false narrative. They have their own motives for trying to put the Wheatley admininstration in a bad light at any cost.Anxious for UK take over then and about 85% of readership.
Yo! You got selective amnesia you muppet?!? Hon. Stacy Mather brought it up and Vinnie had to go back and research who got paid what by NHI! Facts.
You need to stay on that tabloid site from coming over here where sensible debates and opinions matter! These blunt tools you defending wouldn’t last one week outside the BVI. Neither would you as matter fact.
you refuted who uncovered the information but DIDNT refute that the blame was directed at the wrong person OR that you all had woll pulled over your eyes so my point remains. How’s THAT for your sensible debate and opinion.
HOW WILL IT BE FUNDED?
increased taxes – money has to come from somewhere.
The ABVI has no unemployment benefits and virtually no unemployment – and in reality, no unemployment for any belonger that wants to work.
Countries that have unemployment benefits have high unemployment – because plenty of people would prefer to be paid to stay at home watching TV rather than having to work.
introducing unemployment benefits in the BVI would simply mean that the BVI would start to have unemployment. It is a really bad idea.
“Think about it”, unemployment insurance is not meant to be remunerations, in lieu of employment. It is meant as a stop-gap-to assist, until future employment, is secured
This, is so vital to any stabilizing workforce. Of course, the many of those,in this country who can be counted among the wealthy, will never understand these types of mundane issues!
But for the rest, those who have had to subsist during trying times, unemployment insurance is a life line!
And, the representatives, should be bending over backwards, to fund such an important, and vital aspect, within the working world of these beautiful islands, that we call home!
Also the most vulnerable and lowest paid are employed in seasonal positions that shut down for 4 to 5 Months. This provides at least a safety net. When did we become so callous towards the people that have the most needs. We have adopted the mentality of those ex pats who view ALL melonated individuals as lazy . The BVI and Caribbean are hard working people .There will not be a case where there is abuse like the U.S. The dynamics are completely differet. And even in the US when others receive benefits its ok but when minorities receive benefits its magically called “welfare” and seen as a negative.
While the idea of introducing unemployment insurance in the BVI is well-intentioned, it risks fostering dependency on welfare without addressing the root causes of unemployment. Instead of relying on a system that could encourage long-term dependence, the BVI should focus on more sustainable solutions, such as revitalizing the public sector and implementing revenue-generating initiatives.
Key Strategies for Increasing Local Employment and Encouraging Job-Seeking Behavior:
1. Expand the Public Sector Workforce
The BVI government should focus on expanding its public sector, especially in areas like infrastructure, construction, and environmental resilience. This will reduce reliance on private contractors while creating local job opportunities. Training programs can also upskill workers, ensuring the public sector is capable of meeting the island’s needs.
Cost Impact:
Public sector workforce expansion (100 additional workers at $2,000/month): ~$2.4 million annually.
Training programs: ~$500,000–$1 million annually.
Revenue Impact:
Reduced reliance on contractors could save up to $10 million annually (50% reduction of $20 million spent on private contractors).
Improved infrastructure will boost tourism, generate local jobs, and foster a better business environment.
2. Revenue-Generating Public Sector Projects
By initiating projects that generate revenue, the government can create jobs while improving its financial sustainability:
Eco-Tourism Ventures: Develop parks, trails, and marine reserves, managed by public servants, with revenue reinvested into services.
Public Tourism Infrastructure: Government-run marinas and visitor centers could generate income while supporting tourism.
Waste-to-Energy Programs: Innovate in waste management, turning garbage into energy. This could also support tourism by developing artificial islands or recreational spaces from byproducts.
Cost Impact:
Waste-to-Energy Plant (start-up): ~$10–20 million.
Annual maintenance: ~$2–3 million.
Revenue Impact:
Waste-to-Energy: ~$500,000–$1 million annually from energy sales and carbon credits.
Tourism Revenue: ~$1–2 million annually from park and event-related fees.
3. Rebuild Public-Led Infrastructure Projects
The government should rebuild its capacity to handle infrastructure projects, reducing reliance on private contractors. This can be achieved by offering competitive wages, benefits, and training.
Cost Impact:
Workforce expansion: ~$2.4 million annually (for 100 workers).
In-house operations: While costs may rise, savings from reduced outsourcing will balance these expenses.
Revenue Impact:
Savings from reduced outsourcing: ~$5–10 million annually.
Long-term value from improved infrastructure will attract more tourism and international businesses.
4. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for Revenue
Joint ventures with the private sector can allow the government to fund large projects while maintaining control and reinvesting profits into public services.
Cost Impact:
Government investment (30% of a $10 million project): ~$3 million.
Revenue Impact:
Joint venture profits: ~$500,000–$1 million annually, depending on the project’s success.
5. Encourage Civic Pride in Public Service
Promoting government jobs as a source of pride and opportunity can help attract skilled workers. Public awareness campaigns and internship programs can engage young professionals and ensure the public sector remains competitive.
Cost Impact:
Awareness campaigns: ~$100,000–$200,000 annually.
Internship programs: ~$250,000–$500,000 annually.
Revenue Impact:
Reduced reliance on welfare as more people secure stable employment.
A stronger, more skilled public sector workforce, benefiting the wider economy.
6. Effective Unemployment Stop-Gap Solution
Rather than creating long-term dependency, the government should introduce a stop-gap solution to assist the unemployed while encouraging them to actively seek work.
Temporary Relief Fund: Provide $1,000/month for up to six months for unemployed individuals who actively seek work (e.g., by applying to a set number of jobs weekly).
Funding Options:
Funded through a small percentage of the annual budget (~1–2% of the $400 million budget, totaling $4–8 million).
Alternatively, a temporary surcharge on luxury tourism or corporate taxes could generate additional revenue.
Cost Impact:
If 1,000 individuals receive $1,000/month for six months: ~$6 million total cost.
Program administration: ~$250,000–$500,000 for setup and monitoring.
Revenue Impact:
Economic stimulation as recipients maintain purchasing power, benefiting local businesses.
Reduced long-term welfare costs by focusing on short-term assistance and job-seeking efforts.
7. Fiscal Management and Sustainability
Redirecting funds from contractor fees to public sector initiatives can create long-term sustainability. Taxes on luxury tourism and financial services can also help fund these initiatives while supporting broader economic growth.
Cost Impact:
Initial investment in public sector projects could be high, but can be sustained through targeted taxes and improved efficiency.
Revenue Impact:
Taxes on high-end tourism and financial services: ~$5–10 million annually.
Increased revenue from sustainable public projects.
8. Eliminate Project Overruns and Improve Budget Management
Project mismanagement has led to significant budget overruns in the past (e.g., pier park kiosks and Lambert Access Hill). To avoid such issues, the government should implement stronger financial oversight.
Key Measures:
Strengthen Planning & Feasibility Studies: Implement independent feasibility studies and audits to ensure cost estimates are accurate.
Centralized Project Management Office (PMO): Establish a PMO to oversee all public sector projects and prevent cost overruns.
Penalties for Contractors: Enforce penalties for contractors who fail to adhere to budget and timeline commitments.
Use Fixed-Price Contracts: Adopt fixed-price contracts to protect the government from unforeseen costs.
Post-Completion Reviews: Conduct public reviews of completed projects to ensure accountability and learn from past mistakes.
Cost Impact:
Feasibility studies and audits: ~$100,000–$300,000 per project.
PMO establishment: ~$500,000–$1 million annually.
Revenue Impact:
Savings from avoiding cost overruns could potentially recover millions, as seen in the Lambert Access Hill project (where $2.7 million could have been saved).
It is difficult to think of many more terrible ideas that those set out by @NoWelfareStatePlease. The suggestions that we need a larger public service is extraordinary – what we need is a public service of about 50% of the current size, but working efficiently to do a better job.
So cut the public sector workforce to 5% of the population to serve 95% of the population of which a total of 97% is employed. That’s 1 public servant to each resident. We want an efficiently run country with a 5% public sector workforce?
1. Public Service Expansion, training programs, and reduced reliance on private contractors (which are overcharging taxpayers) to reduce reliance on overpriced private contractors and deliver real value for taxpayers—this is a bad idea?
2. Public-Led Infrastructure Projects to build long-term resilience and economic growth – are bad ideas?
3. Eco-tourism to leverage our natural resources sustainably to attract high-value visitors and boost local revenue – is a bad idea?
4. Public Tourism Infrastructure to attract high-value visitors and boost local revenue – is a bad idea?
5. Waste-to-Energy Programs that tackle environmental issues and reduce costs – are a bad idea?
6. Encouraging Civic Pride in Public Service to attract top talent and improve governance – is a bad idea? – I’ll give that this one is a bit shaky but not terrible.
7. Fiscal Management and Sustainability – through accountability and planning- is a bad idea?
8. Avoiding cost overrun through accountability measures by demanding transparency and efficiency – is a bad idea?
Your argument reads like a call to cripple our nation. Suggesting a 50% reduction in the public sector—about 1,500 jobs lost—is not just unsustainable; it’s a recipe for economic disaster. How exactly do you propose we achieve this magical “efficiency” while maintaining employment rates above 90% and addressing critical public needs?
Frankly, your stance smacks of colonialist thinking: an attempt to keep the BVI dependent on external inputs rather than fostering self-reliance. History has shown us that nations strengthen their economies by investing in themselves—through public services, education, infrastructure, and innovation—not by slashing the very systems that support growth.
Do you truly believe that the status quo, let alone a public service halved in size, will sustain the BVI’s future? If anything, we need bold, public-driven initiatives to ensure that our economy thrives independently. Let’s aim higher, not gut our capacity to serve our people.
our perspective reflects a strong preference for austerity, efficiency, and skepticism of public systems. While these ideals are valid, they risk oversimplifying the complexities of governing a small economy like the BVI. Dismissing public initiatives such as eco-tourism or sustainability programs overlooks their potential to foster self-reliance and long-term growth.
Your argument seems rooted in theoretical ideals rather than tailored solutions for local socio-economic realities, such as employment and stability. Additionally, the tone may come across as paternalistic, suggesting external dependence over local empowerment.
Balancing fiscal discipline with practical, context-sensitive solutions is key to addressing the BVI’s unique challenges and aspirations.
All i see when i read this is we looking a way to tax ayo harder.
Invest in education and programmes to ensure 16 – 18 year olds enter further education , training or apprenticeship programmes. Or we will end up with an expat labour force funding unemployed locals.
Ayo just couldn’t help it right? Scheming to take back the little two cent raise I got the other day! Diabolical!
Our elected officials are again redirecting their efforts to solving the issue away from the major culprits that contributes to poverty daily.
The business community mmust be made to begin paying a living and not a slave and profit take all wage.
A 3 cents raise is a tragic example of perpetuating slavery on the back drop of humungous profits, most of which are posted out of the country.
Business must do better and goovernment must do better at taking care of the people.
So when you refer to a living wage, are you considering whether that aligns with an employee’s skill set? That is, should that wage be forced even if prevents the company from making a profit?
If a business cannot be profitable because it has to pay that “living wage,” what happens then?
THE PII CE OF VG ~ TURNED DOCTOR ,HAS ANOTHER BRIGHT IDEA AGAIN / AFTER HE AND
THE NOTORIOUS BIG DONE DO A NUMBER UNLER ON THEM ISLAND PEOPLE , USING ( MONEY GRAM )
IN A CLANDISTINE TO FOUBLE TAX THEM , AND CLOSE THEIR EUEX TO THE THIEVING EMPLOYERS GETTING AWAY WITH MURDER ON DEDUCTING THEIR EMPLOYEES TAX AND NOT PAYING IT IN TO THE GOVERNMENT , AND THESE WANNABE GENIUSES BELIEVE THEY GOT THE MOST BRAINS IN THE BVI / AND AS ANOTHER GENIUS , PSYCHIC CONSULTANT ” CITY SLICKER ” HONESTLY SPEAKING SAID “WE GOT
FRIGGED “
you on the same nonsense about Money gram as if he came up with the idea or was te only Minister to pass that legislation. To my memory they all voted ofr it . So how come he alone is assignd the blame? because you are a coward. If you go to any other Rep. with that they would probably clout you off so you look for the person who does not induldge in such behaviour. He should though especially with people like you.
Government has been exploring an incinerator or scrubber filters for the garbage for twenty years or more . I myself am exploring owning a mega yacht that’s! That’s a throwaway political New Year’s resolution if ever I heard one all done with a sincere smile.
Good idea. Hoping they are stipulation in place that truly protects the employees. Don’t want this to go down similar road like Social Security and NHI. Don’t let employers deduct the monies from employees salaries and not pay it in. Don’t try to hold us employees accountable taking bout we should be checking on our contributions. Make sure you have penalties for delinquent employers. When employees check and they find out their bosses are behind, what process do they follow to correct this. Also employees should just randomly fire employees or make positions redundant just so the can not pay them but unemployment should. As I said, good idea but please do all you can to avoid the pitfalls like those at Social Security and NHI.
To employers stop robbing your employees and do the right thing also make sure you pay in their deductions. It unfair that they are left scrambling to take care of themselves plus family while some of you living the high life. Stop it. This benefits no one.
Forgot to add this.
To future employees of the program, please don’t follow the pathways of SS and NHI employees. Don’t be afraid to call out employers o their actions. If they not paying put them on blast. Don’t let them off because they are family or friend or high society. Blast them. Remember the only ones suffering will be the employees. Please hold them accountable. Everyone benefits when done right.
AH KNOW ITS YOU WIGGIE / VINNIE & AND THE COACH ( AKA )
DTHE NOTORIOUS B I G – DREAMT UP THE IDEA AND THE REST PUPPETS JUST WENT WITH THE FLOW / SO YOU CAN CONTINUE SINGING YOUR ” FREE THE DREW ” SONG , NATALIO DID ONE GOOD THING , AND THAT WAD TO FIRE YOUR ARZ AND THEN DROP KICKED YOUR BUTT OUT OF THE HOA / WHAT A RELIEF , ANYWAY YOU STILL GOT YOUR YELLO SITE AS A THRONE TO SPEW OUT YOUR RACIST SH*T , WHY DON’T YOU JUST STAY OFF THIS SITE , THAT YOU CONSTANTLY CRITICIZES SO WE CAN READ THE REAL NEWS . AND GO FREE UP THE WEED , OR DRESS UP AND GET STONED , IT MIGHT HELP TO CONTROL YOUR OVERGROWN EGO
Here is a novel idea. Rather than focusing all that energy on unemployment insurance which doesn’t help those that didn’t have a job to begin with. Why not try and bring investors to the country to provide more jobs in the private sector.
Here comes the welfare wagon. Government handouts galore. See what LBJ had to say about welfare in the 60s.
Work permits should not be handed out if there is any BVIslander “unemployed”.