Premier optimistic over BVI’s border security measures

As the BVI continues to face challenges related to illegal fishing and smuggling operations, Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley expressed optimism about the territory’s efforts to enhance border security.

Second District Representative Melvin ‘Mitch’ Turnbull asked the Premier during a recent House of Assembly sitting how the issues affecting border security and illegal fishing would be addressed.

In response, Premier Wheatley explained that the government is collaborating with the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) through the Governor’s Office to introduce new legislation.

“The ministry is working on legislation to transition from an exclusive fishery zone to an exclusive economic zone, which will include monitoring our waters, mainly via satellite, and appropriate penalties for violators,” Dr Wheatley stated. This legislation aims to strengthen border security by ensuring that the BVI’s waters are better monitored and illegal activities are penalised more effectively.

Turnbull, however, expressed doubts over the certainty of these efforts, asking if there were any immediate plans to address the issue, especially given the limited resources available to the police and Customs. “So, is it clear for me to then say that in the near future, there’s no plan to address this? Based on my understanding, the Customs and the police are limited in their resources to carry out their functions,” Turnbull remarked. “I am left to question if anything actually will happen.”

Premier Wheatley refuted this interpretation, explaining that the plan is well underway. “I’m not sure how the member (Turnbull) hears that and comes to the conclusion that there’s no plan. That’s what we call a non sequitur,” Dr Wheatley said.

“We will proceed with the legislation. The legislation is nearing completion. We’ll go through the legislative phase and then we’ll move on to the next step. We have cause to be optimistic,” the Premier added. He noted that the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change had received additional funding to assist with enforcement activities, and both Customs and police forces are regularly receiving new assets.

The Premier emphasised that satellite monitoring would be a key element in the government’s strategy to secure the BVI’s borders, with on-the-water assets such as police and Customs vessels playing a crucial role in responding to threats. “We have to have a means of responding, whether through the police, through Customs, etc. So, assets on the waters will be part of our plan,” he added.

While Turnbull remained sceptical about the effectiveness of the current measures, the Premier reiterated his confidence in the government’s approach. “We will move forward with the legislation and continue building our capacity to protect our borders,” said Dr Wheatley.