Road Town, Tortola - Peace and tranquillity were key words echoed by Premier Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE as he addressed the newest recipients of belonger status during a ceremony, held by the Immigration Department, today.
“Peace and tranquillity are attributes of this territory that we depend upon a lot. They are the things that help to bring tourist to this country.” Premier O’Neal said.
Premier O’Neal then wished the recipients well and asked them to take their new found status seriously. He also offered strong words of caution, admonishing the recipients to abide by the laws of the land.
“You are expected to play your part as citizens. The law states that if any one serves a custodial sentence of three months or more, or pays a fine of a certain amount of dollars, they will be deported. If you can’t behave yourselves in the BVI then you must return to your homeland. These laws have to be strictly applied because we want peace and tranquillity in this country in order to enjoy the better things of life,” Premier O’Neal said.
Recognising the screening process undertaken by the recipients to receive their belonger status, the Premier said, “It is not an easy process to become a belonger and it is going to get harder.” The Premier’s statement was made in light of global economic trends where stricter immigration controls are now in place.
He added, “We have to ensure that the right people get belonger status and are allowed to come in and enjoy the fruits of the BVI. I do hope you continue to do what you are accustomed of doing and everything will go well with you.”
Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office Mrs. Rosalie Adams chaired the brief programme and highlighted the responsibility that accompanies the new status.
“This responsibility is very grave and each of us must continue to play a part. We have to take seriously our attitude and behaviour that will make this Territory an ideal place for all of us to live. Those of us who are mature and know better will do better and continue to keep this Territory up so that all can benefit positively. We had to take care of you, and if we are taking care of you then you must take care of this Territory.” Chief Immigration Officer Mr. Dennis Jennings in his remarks encouraged the recipients to be kind to the land that has been kind to them. Also in attendance was the Chairman of the Board of Immigration Mr. Michael Anthony.
Mr. Anthony Bramble gave the recipient response and thanked the Government and the people of the Territory for welcoming and bestowing upon them “the privilege to become belongers in the land. We shall treasure this privilege and forever be grateful for it.”
He pointed out that amidst the increasing social ills that face the Territory, the newest group of belongers can help rebuild the Virgin Islands to the place it used to be with high moral standards and virtues by exhibiting respect love, care, humility and peace.
“The challenge ahead for each of us is to be bright lights of hope and always filled with optimism as we make our own independent choices with the same care and dedication to this Territory which has honoured us with belonger status,” Mr. Bramble said.
Belonger status is the highest level awarded under the Immigration and Passport Act of the Territory. Applicants for this status have to meet the requirements of Section 16 of the Immigration and Passport Act. They can qualify by marriage or if they are holders of Certificates of Residence Status. Today’s ceremony was the first Belonger Status ceremony for the year.
British Virgin Islands News