Premier Says gov’t exploring Customs, Immigration merger

The government is actively exploring the integration of its Customs and Immigration departments into a unified Joint Border Control Force, Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley revealed in the House of Assembly late last week. 

Speaking on the matter, Premier Wheatley said the merger is being considered to improve border security, streamline operations and enhance service delivery.

“The Customs and Immigration Department serve as the first line of defence in protecting our borders and safeguarding national security,” he explained. 

While the proposal is still in its early stages, it follows a study visit to the Cayman Islands in June 2024, where BVI officials examined the Cayman Islands’ Customs and Border Control model. According to the Premier, “It was evident that integrating border security functions yields numerous benefits,” including improved operational efficiency, better enforcement capabilities, and a smoother experience for travellers and businesses. 

No immediate merger plans 

Despite these discussions, the Premier assured the public that there are no immediate plans to merge Customs and Immigration. However, a structured transition plan is being developed to determine the legislative, operational, financial, and human resource implications of merging Customs and Immigration. 

“The proposal to establish a Joint Border Control Force is being approached in a phased manner,” he stated, adding that the plan will include stakeholder consultations, staff engagement, and border management modernisation. 

Dr Wheatley also emphasised that the move is not about reducing the local workforce, but rather about strengthening capacity in border security for the Virgin Islands. “This initiative is not about job losses or downsizing, but rather about building a more robust and efficient border security system,” he assured.

Premier previously rejected merger proposal 

This latest development follows Premier Wheatley’s recent remarks on a local radio show, where he dismissed a proposed merger of Customs and Immigration under the Governor’s control. The recommendation was reportedly part of the UK’s second volume of the Law Enforcement Review, which was initiated following the 2021 Commission of Inquiry (COI). 

Dr Wheatley previously said, “It’s my understanding that there’s a recommendation for Immigration and Customs to go under the Governor… I have to say to you, that’s a recommendation that I do not agree with”. 

Dr Wheatley suggested at the time that the recommendation in the unpublished review would take the territory in the wrong direction and mean less responsibility for locally elected officials.

He urged the public to reject it outright. “I would just say to the people of the Virgin Islands, wake up. We’ve got to wake up. I’ve been speaking about this colonialism thing for some time. Some people don’t want to hear about it. We are capable, as any people, of being able to manage our own society,” Premier Wheatley insisted.