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'No UK military assistance needed during COVID-19'- Premier Fahie

- Is the Governor trying to take over the country through the back door?
UK Military seen interacting with residents of Tortola, VI, in the aftermath of the Hurricane Irma and Maria of 2017. Photo: Daily Mail/File
It is our news centre understanding that the United Kingdom through their representative, Governor Augustus J. U. Jaspert has offered military assistant to the Virgin Islands led by Premier and Minster of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie. Photo. VINO/File
It is our news centre understanding that the United Kingdom through their representative, Governor Augustus J. U. Jaspert has offered military assistant to the Virgin Islands led by Premier and Minster of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie. Photo. VINO/File
While on a special edition of 'Honestly Speaking' hosted by commentator Claude O. Skelton-Cline on Friday, May 8, 2020, Commission of Police, Mr Michael B. Matthews, agreed with the Premier that no military intervention is needed, however, said the VI should take it because it is free. Photo: Facebook/File
While on a special edition of 'Honestly Speaking' hosted by commentator Claude O. Skelton-Cline on Friday, May 8, 2020, Commission of Police, Mr Michael B. Matthews, agreed with the Premier that no military intervention is needed, however, said the VI should take it because it is free. Photo: Facebook/File
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI - The democratically elected government of Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) has made it clear to the United Kingdom appointed Governor, H.E. Augustus J. U. Jaspert, aka 'Gus' that no military advisers or intervention are required as the territory protects its borders as part of its COVID-19 response measures.

In an update yesterday, Friday, May 8, 2020, on measures being implemented for the pandemic, Premier Fahie noted that we must continue to "respect what is in our DNA as people of the Virgin Islands."

He said, the good behaviour around the territory's borders and land, coupled with the fine work that border protection authorities such as Customs, Immigration and Police have been doing, "has shown that together we will always achieve more".

Keep the British military out 

In addition, the territory's head of government continued by stating that their joint efforts have allowed him as Premier from "ever having to do like other countries had to do because of their situation."

He said that includes requesting military assistance to restore law and order or plan for potential disorderly conduct of any high level.

It is our news centre understanding that the United Kingdom through their representative, Governor Jaspert has offered military assistant to the Territory. 

Double talk from British Police Chief?

While on a special edition of 'Honestly Speaking' hosted by commentator Claude O. Skelton-Cline on Friday, May 8, 2020, Commission of Police, Mr Michael B. Matthews, agreed with the Premier that no military intervention is needed.  

However, in what many social commentators regarded as 'double talk' by the British Top Cop, the commissioner claims that because it is free, the VI should take it.

Many social and political activists have alleged that Governor Jaspert is seeking another route to take over the country having been sidelined in the COIVD-19 pandemic efforts, even as the government has been on the forefront of the battle.

High praises for elected Gov't

The elected government of Premier Fahie with the strong support of his Deputy Premier and Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Carvin Malone (AL) and the Cabinet have been praised locally, regionally and internationally for the extraordinary job in keeping the VI safe from the Coronavirus and maintaining low numbers.  

Due to this, many have concluded that an unelected British Governor is now unnecessary and it is alleged that Mr Jaspert is desperately seeking ways to remain relevant.

41 Responses to “'No UK military assistance needed during COVID-19'- Premier Fahie”

  • Memories (09/05/2020, 20:07) Like (44) Dislike (51) Reply
    What utter rubbish! The UK made the offer in the recognition that in our most recent previous disaster, Irma and Maria, the UK military assistance (and the tireless efforts of the Governor) were what kept the BVI from descending into chaos. And we all know it. We may not like a UK presence, but we all know what kept things together. So that's why they offered to be helpful, if we wanted it.
    • Memories (09/05/2020, 23:49) Like (48) Dislike (17) Reply
      You can stop there talking foolishness. This is a back door move to try to take over the BVI. The UK needs to help with funds and stop playing games. NO MILITARY is NEEDED. This is foolishness. Tell the UK give us the help in the areas we really need it and stop playing games in these serious times.
    • To Memories (10/05/2020, 07:21) Like (1) Dislike (4) Reply
      We thank the UK for what help they offered but let it be in the areas the BVI truly needs help and not in a way just to make the UK look good internationally and not on the ground locally. The BVI does not need help from the UK in this way. Give us economic help directly. We are a mature people now in the BVI and we understand the international political games and we are tired of it.
  • Don’t Look a Gift Horse (09/05/2020, 21:08) Like (26) Dislike (28) Reply
    They were so helpful after Irma. And no disrespect to the Premier and his Government, but why not accept the offered support from the UK military now?! This is only the beginning of the global Covid 19 pandemic, and times are uncertain. If we find in a month or two, or five, that we need that help, it may be too late to receive it.
    • Oh Please (09/05/2020, 23:53) Like (61) Dislike (21) Reply
      The UK letting their people die in the UK in the thousands and trying to make us feel as if they care about us. Over forty thousand dead in the UK with Corona. Now they trying to fool us. This is a modern day version of slavery. WAKE UP PEOPLE!
  • think (09/05/2020, 21:20) Like (23) Dislike (1) Reply
    Not necessary for right nowThink we are still well behave despite a few little hiccups. If things start to get out of hand then we may need to. Thankful for the measures been put in placed, the RVIPF, customs and immigration. I'm confident that we can handle this pandemic without outside help.

    I pray that God would keep all our service man and women in good health that we would get through this together.
    • @Think (09/05/2020, 23:40) Like (7) Dislike (17) Reply
      It's not necessary for now, but should we go back into a more serious lockdown again if more cases arise when the borders reopen in a few weeks it would be helpful to maintain control of lines at stores & make sure only persons from certain districts are on the roads....

    • The Second search nonsense (10/05/2020, 06:20) Like (10) Dislike (5) Reply
      Second search another fear strategy, The virus is fading away dying a gradual death, We just need to stop listening to CNN.. They are the Job of the Mobs...
  • one eye (09/05/2020, 21:51) Like (20) Dislike (13) Reply
    Keep your eyes on that governor
  • ccc (09/05/2020, 22:10) Like (19) Dislike (18) Reply

    I agree with the premier these w*** boys never stop with their tricks

  • British Virgin Islands (09/05/2020, 22:27) Like (13) Dislike (17) Reply
    Thank you, we welcome UK help!
  • My Take (09/05/2020, 23:53) Like (24) Dislike (11) Reply

    This G*^@@@@o#....... is a deceiver. His agenda is not the people of the Virgin Islands agenda.

    • @ my take (10/05/2020, 13:13) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply

      I agree we must continue to fight J*** this white elephant in the room

  • LCD (09/05/2020, 23:55) Like (20) Dislike (3) Reply
    They did it AGAIN? Just like after the hurricanes... Not very smart.
  • Ghut Man (10/05/2020, 00:46) Like (18) Dislike (5) Reply

    Well saw more in the Mata the g#$%^&** desperately trying to take over, someone should remind him the government has changed

  • market (10/05/2020, 00:48) Like (21) Dislike (2) Reply
    More power Gus looking say no mr Fahie no way hosay
  • A VOTER IN #6 (10/05/2020, 05:43) Like (15) Dislike (2) Reply
    THIS IS NOT A PANDEMIC THAT THE BVI CAN'T HANDLE, WHEN IT COMES. TO THAT IM SURE WE'LL ASK FOR HELP BUT RIGHT NOW IT'S NOT NECESSARY
  • No Sunny Vacation (10/05/2020, 06:14) Like (4) Dislike (3) Reply
    I agree 100% with Fahie...No Sunny vacation for them..
  • Think nah (10/05/2020, 06:17) Like (22) Dislike (0) Reply
    There coming out places where this virus is rampant ..wat u dont know that there go bring this virus and make ur situation worst and not better ..the possibility is that ..and those who agreeing to there present kno this
  • Asking questions (10/05/2020, 07:09) Like (1) Dislike (8) Reply
    Haven't all the 4 active cases recovered from the virus? Isn't there right now a high number of infections in the UK. Didn't most of the cases in the Caribbean start from people who had returned from the UK. Is the situation so dier that this extra help is warranted, whether or not it is free. Shouldn't the Commissioner be more concerned about training the force to be competent at the same level as you would find in the UK because right now clearly they are not. Should the Governor not be making arrangements to depart including packing bags and preparing farewell statement because his contract is coming to an end or ended already.

    At this point, both the Governor and Police Commissioner, we thank you for your service and we wish you a happy retirement. To the mother country, is it true that amongst you there is not a black man that is qualified to represent you as a Governor or a Police Commissioner, not a one? Where is the evidence of equal opportunity and no race discrimination. What about this the honourable Premier. Is there not a one amongst us that can fit those roles? We understand our people and our community and we need to put back the brotherly and sisterly love in the place and include all of our caribbean people. There are those amongst us who pretend to be us but are inciting division and hatred in the blogs yet they are not us at all. That is not our voice. That is not our people.

    Let us start asking ourselves some questions here.
  • facts (10/05/2020, 07:17) Like (2) Dislike (6) Reply
    The UK and Governor think they smart. We study their history and know how they operate. They always up to NO GOOD.
  • Dulce (10/05/2020, 08:36) Like (7) Dislike (4) Reply
    My jumble opinion is that the offer should have been graciously accepted.
    • eyes (10/05/2020, 14:33) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
      As you said just an opinion and you are free to blog what ever you want but at the end of the day it's the premier decision and not yours thank God.
    • Hurricane coming (12/05/2020, 15:20) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
      Remember the August flood ? NDP refused help. Shortly after Irma came....

      Corona.... VIP refused help lets hope a major storm doesnt come.
  • legal team (10/05/2020, 09:10) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
    This is a tight diplomatic decision,by persons in authority,who must make a decision,in the interest of the territory.I wish them god's blessings and guidance.
  • Bravo, New Zealand (10/05/2020, 09:20) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    One case since the virus started. New
    Zealand closed down when the virus hit, people were allowed out for 1 hour per day to handle their business and they sanitize and wash down the streets and buildings with a sanitizer truck.
  • Military (10/05/2020, 09:32) Like (4) Dislike (5) Reply
    The UK made a generous offer and the BVI should accept it. The UK should send virus-free troops to the BVI and set up a base in the Tortola Pier Park for the duration of the pandemic. The Royal Navy ships can berth at the empty cruise ship pier and discharge all their vehicles so the soldiers can adequately patrol the island roads and water. This would give the undermanned police and customs forces added support especially during the next series of lockdowns this year.
  • Irma (10/05/2020, 09:56) Like (8) Dislike (4) Reply
    Am i hearing right. Is this the same then Leader of the Opposition who strongly criticised the then Govt for turning back the same UK troops after the flood.
  • Rubber Duck (10/05/2020, 13:16) Like (10) Dislike (2) Reply
    before this big child Gus tell the people about the requested economic aid he here about military aid!!!! what an oppressor
  • @asking question. (10/05/2020, 13:28) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    FACKS......divide and rule ..there forefathers wicked evil strageity of conquering and ruling ..not forgetting there smile......hmmmm
    • @asking question (10/05/2020, 14:03) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      FACTS....their forefathers strategy,their smile. They went to school !!
  • True Virgin Islander (10/05/2020, 14:22) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    I'm trying to understand what they mean by taking over the territory. The territory is already British..You can't take over something or a location that's already apart of your Mainland country..even though the territories have devolved local govts.
    I am from the BVI and I can say there isn't enough defense force present in the caribbean territories..did someone forgot about 2017 and 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season that's around the corner? At anytime a foreign country can try to take over the territories whether their lands or ocean areas..you need the British Defence Force there at all times...Also the first priority listed in the British Ministry of Defense's mandate is to "Provide Defense and Security to Great Britain, Nortern Ireland and the Overseas territories."
    And also to whoever said that the UK is letting citizes die out here, that's the NHS that's responsible for health care and not the Ministry of Defense.they only assist where needed.
    I think there is a need for the territories and the UK Govt to collaberate more to protect the interests and secure the territories more...e.g funding for events such as these, natural disasters, better health care, lifting the territories profiles across the UK govt offices and especially in areas like tourism and other local industries..
    A level playing field when it comes to services e.g cell phone monthly packages, the cost to call between London and any territory..proper shipping and Air Cargo links as nobody can tell what can happen to the current logistics links currently in place.
    The territories need to have representatives face to face in the UK govt to bargain, leverage the playing field and to defend their industries and also help introduce policies to improve lives within each territory that will wish to have a capable person in the UK Govt.
    In a time like this and unemployment at it's rate because of that pandemic, there should've been an agrement in place already for all territories.
    It may come with taxes, who knows but you get services because you are a tax paying resident anywhere across the British Mainland.
    Let's keep our heads up and remain safe as this safe distancing and pandemic on awhole will not be the new norm forever.
  • wondering (10/05/2020, 19:26) Like (5) Dislike (1) Reply
    So our Premier asked for funds to help the BVI through COVID19 pandemic and the UK and their BVI Governor say no. Then the Governor and UK want to send military? Wait, wait don't tell me.
  • fake people (10/05/2020, 20:35) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    Big Baby Gus can go cry in a corner. Cannot wait for him and his lapdog the Police Commissioner to go back home to cold grey useless UK where they are nobody’s. Waste of our money. Useless freeloaders. Only care about their image and publicity. And free lifestyle at our expense. So fake their intentions it’s sickening. They cannot leave soon enough.
    • lodger (11/05/2020, 07:40) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      To Fake People I bet having a drink with you would be interesting. Whats your contribution to the world?
  • zoe (11/05/2020, 06:56) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply

    I agree this g***** man is trying hard to destroy we bvi

  • @forefathers (11/05/2020, 13:43) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    And we went to theres..........
  • Protect border (11/05/2020, 15:23) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Seems a good idea to have extra support to keep the sea border secure and prevent people coming in to Bvi illegally and maybe bringing Coronavirus.
  • Bob (11/05/2020, 17:02) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    We have another case I hear, if that's true then we have open borders..
  • Wait (11/05/2020, 22:04) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    @BOB its interesting how hear say sweeps some of us off our feet. Why not wait to hear the facts. It is the responsibility of the minister of health, the Governor and the premier to update the territory on the matter. We have to hold them accountable and they must be transparent in their dealings. If this is not forthcoming they will bear the consequences of their actions.

    So far they are doing a very good job at it and I dont see any difference forth coming. So please dont start rumours wait for the facts.

    How ever I have one big concern.how is it that everytime there is a case the public knows before the Government comes live with the update? I believe there is a lack of confidentiality which causes serious concerns. Some one is leaking the information out of the public health dept or other departments that have been updated. This is very bad. This is serious how can we trust the system and the people who signed to secrecy
  • VIslander (13/05/2020, 09:49) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    @ wondering: the Military was already operating between territories ..e.g Anguilla, Monsterrat,TCI, etc..the Military being in the territory is there to protect the borders, airspace and ocean assets..that's their duty..to protect Britain..the island that you live on is british land.the citizens are..majority of them...the military have been protecting all of the ocean around Great Britain and also the Air Space all through the pandemic..it's nothing unusual.They are all around territories, crown dependecies and also the Mainland all at the same time..Plus the hurricane season is weeks away..so they are stationed in the Caribbean region to assist also.
    I think they need to explain to the residents what their duties are...that's not the military just for England or Wales but it's the military for all of Britain with all of the British Territories included.
    We are all more safe with our Defence Force protecting us.
    Funding for the territory is a matter with the Minister for the Overseas Territories and the other counterparts..


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