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‘Where you born is where you from’- Julian Willock

- Challenges NDP Gov’t to change immigration laws or have a referendum on the issue of expats children born in VI
Former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works and Chairman of the Board of Advance Marketing and Professional Services, Mr Julian Willock has suggested that a referendum or a change of immigration laws could immediately address the issue of expats children born in the territory becoming ‘stateless’ if they do not get a passport from the country of origin of their parents. Photo: VINO/File
The issue of expats children born in the territory becoming ‘stateless’ if they do not get a passport from the country of origin of their parents was again brought to the House of Assembly on April 21, 2017 by Minister for Education and Culture Hon Myron V. Walwyn. Photo: VINO/File
The issue of expats children born in the territory becoming ‘stateless’ if they do not get a passport from the country of origin of their parents was again brought to the House of Assembly on April 21, 2017 by Minister for Education and Culture Hon Myron V. Walwyn. Photo: VINO/File
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- Two simple solutions to one big problem currently plaguing the Virgin Islands (UK)- that of expats children born in the territory becoming "stateless" if they do not get a passport from the country of origin of their parents- are a referendum or a change of immigration laws.

The frank former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works and Chairman of the Board of Advance Marketing and Professional Services, Mr Julian Willock, made the suggestions during an interview on the International Morning Ride Show on ZROD 103.7 FM with host Paul A. Peart aka ‘Gadiethz’ on Monday April 24, 2017.

The topic was most recently explored by Education and Culture Minister Honourable Myron V. Walwyn (AL) at the Friday April 21, 2017 sitting of the House of Assembly. Hon Walwyn said the matter was a “terrible indictment” that needs to be addressed with a level of urgency.

Where you born is where you from

According to Mr Willock, Hon Walwyn needed to tell the truth on the issue of automatic citizenship by birth.

“I for one believes where you born is where you from. I am one of those who subscribe to that theory. But we must be honest in our argument, in our dialogue with people and stop trying to rant and rave and simply grant stand for political reasons,” Mr Willock pointed out.

“If you truly love children, you are now in power to do something about the so-called stateless children that you have described and you have not done anything about it. All you do is rant and rave and insulted your colleagues and all that “Cat got your tongue” and you are going to put a “spoke” in somebody’s wheels,” Mr Willock said in direct comments to Hon Walwyn.

The former Permanent Secretary and Businessman also pointed out that there are less than 30 countries that give automatic rights based on birth, including places such as the USA, Bolivia, Belize, Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago, St Vincent and the Grenadines and St Kitts and Nevis.

He noted, however, that there are more countries in the world that do not grant automatic citizenship to persons simply by being born in a country.

Suggestions

While noting that the British Nationality Act is a “challenge” for all the other British Overseas Territories Mr Willock said there are actions that can be undertaken right at home in the Virgin Islands (UK) to address the matter.

“So I am going to be looking forward to the next House of Assembly, whether you want to do it through a referendum, whether you want to do it through amending the local laws…we can do something right now to our local laws to address them.”

According to Mr Willock, children born in the VI to expats can be given automatic Belonger status but this does not necessarily mean they will be given a British passport.

Racist law

But the equally frank Radio Personality, Mr Peart, during his interview, felt that the laws were discriminatory and only for the poor people.

“Racism, racist law,” he insisted. “And our black brothers and sisters embrace the racist law of the British Empire in this 2017 time.”

He pointed out further to bring his point home that when people from Britain come to the territory with their families they are “well set up” and “our black brothers and sisters still standing in line.”

According to the country’s laws, if a child is born in the VI and the parents are not citizens or belongers they are required to apply in writing to the Immigration Department for permission for the child to reside. The immigration laws do not automatically give any rights for such persons born in the territory.

133 Responses to “‘Where you born is where you from’- Julian Willock”

  • Interesting (24/04/2017, 15:35) Like (47) Dislike (38) Reply
    So tell me, if a pregnant tourist was visiting the BVI and had her child here..that child is a Virgin Islander?
    Of course not
    I know that we Virgin Islanders use that derogatory term "down island people" and we indeed need to stop doing that...
    But to say where you were born is where you're from is quite a stretch.
    I could have been born in JAPAN! That doesn't make me Japanese...but how you guys want this system to run...I would be able to reap alllllll of the benefits of being Japanese and that IS NOT fair to their people.
    If the BVI gives all these immigrants the SAME rights that people with lines and lines of Virgin Islands descendants , that wouldn't be fair to our people. A government's priority is supposed to be looking out for the interests of ITS people...and basically you're suggesting that we give all These people from god knows where rights to our country so they could exhaust OUR land and water, OUR educational opportunities, OUR jobs, OUR niche...
    And when they jump up and say they're going back to their original countries already taking all they could get from ours, what are you going to say then???
    Come on now
    Do you think we can go live in their countries and act like we're their people. Hmmm
    Come on now
    We let you come and stay in our country and do your thing (work etc) ...now you want full blown rights ?? Wow
    Letting you stay wasn't enough
    But as the old people say...when you give an inch, they go for the yard ....so I didn't expect any less
    • tretretrete (24/04/2017, 16:14) Like (36) Dislike (8) Reply
      i imagine the people from Puerto Rico, USVI and USA feel the same like you. you said "..when you give an inch, they go for the yard .." wat a joke lets stop the hypocrisy
      • Interesting (24/04/2017, 17:32) Like (15) Dislike (19) Reply
        Funny that you want to talk about hypocrisy. Did I go to PR, STT or the USA looking for rights??
        No, plus you don't know me...so instead of trying to have something to say...understand what you're reading
        Ignorance
        • Born in USA (24/04/2017, 21:57) Like (28) Dislike (9) Reply
          A child born to a tourist in the USA gets a USA passport
          • vi (25/04/2017, 19:29) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
            You can not compare the US to these small British overseas territories. They can not handle an out of control population growth. The law is about population control.
          • dd (25/04/2017, 20:01) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
            You are missing the point once more.
      • Hallelujah (25/04/2017, 03:59) Like (13) Dislike (1) Reply
        Yes the love of Jesus is in us. We are a fair and Christian society indeed. On another note do NHI work overseas for maternity? Since it was forced upon us and we have to go home to give birth.
        • @ hallelujah (25/04/2017, 07:49) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
          You should be a lawyer
        • no no no (26/04/2017, 09:59) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
          No it does not since the thieving hypocrites see it as a service that can be provided here. No benefit to you of course since you and your child are still considered outsiders but your money counts.
      • @hmmm (28/04/2017, 09:46) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        ? How many Xpats run to the USVI and Puerto Rico to have their child as soon as they gain rights in the VI(UK)? Who is the greater hypocrite, the one who have an option to have their child in another man's country freely and does so, or a people who enters a foreign country and observes the privileges afforded to that countryman and burns within themselves with envy wishing that they too and their offsprings could have that same privilege but because they can not they option to have their children in these people country knowing full well that their laws are not the same and would not apply to their offsprings... yet still in anger over their child's circumstance which 'they themselves' placed on their own child scream Hypocrites!
    • NICK (24/04/2017, 16:19) Like (41) Dislike (4) Reply
      So when I get to the age of 18 and I'm allowed to get that same passport that was denied to me before is there a difference. I've lived her done everything here, represented the country and will be paying my dues back into the system soon. Did I not use the same resources you are referring to. A visitor is different and is moving on; when that child is 18 they are free to return if they feel. But or people who are residents living here and paying all the dues and even more to sustain the lifestyle you currently have you discriminate. Wow how to I look and feel about my country now. And yes my parents are expatriates. They have never even tried to file for any rights. Work exemptions and that is the only benefit they have seek after 28 years of residing here. No wonder the bitter feelings going back and forth. Nothing feels worse than not having an identity not knowing how you should feel about the country of your birth.
      • Jessy (24/04/2017, 18:40) Like (23) Dislike (18) Reply
        I agree with you Nick...My husband and I are expatriates. Our kids were born here, going to school here, learning the island's history and culture. When you ask them where they from.. They reply Tortola. Now when they grow up don't you think they will call here home. They wouldn't go to their parent's country and say that's home. However when these same kids get older and excel in sports and other activities.. Then they from Tola...smh
      • Socialization (24/04/2017, 18:45) Like (13) Dislike (16) Reply
        The parents are not really interested in getting the legal status (residence, belonger), for which they become eligible after those years. They do not apply, then they and their children take up the cause to feel bitter as non-belongers. The children are from where their parents are from, in other words the parents teach their children to do and be as "back home". If the parents were really interested in becoming belongers of the BVI, they would apply when eligible and live according to the law of the land and the status would be passed to the children. Check how many families get BVI status (whether residence, belonger then naturalize) and the children are included in the status through the parents.
        Too many expatriates harbour ill feelings about the BVI but yet they choose to remain living outside the boundaries of good citizenry.
        • um (24/04/2017, 22:26) Like (9) Dislike (3) Reply
          You can't get wp exempt until you have been here 20 years and belongers until you have been here 25 years....so how does that help your children you have here??? I came here when I was 24 and in 3 years time will have lived here longer than I lived in the country I was born in, yet I have no rights..


          • Reply (25/04/2017, 21:38) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
            Only in this way will the relevant facts be heard and the proper decision be made.
    • JB (24/04/2017, 18:29) Like (13) Dislike (10) Reply
      I bet you are some of your family has a USA passport!! you all like to look down on people where this topic is concern but you all run to St Thomas and Porto Rico to have you all kids so they can have US rights...
      • indeed (25/04/2017, 01:54) Like (6) Dislike (5) Reply
        You mean US wights without paying your dues...how many US born BVI islanders are there out there that file their required Form 1040 as overseas nationals and pay US taxes due? How many report their assets as required by FATCA?
    • @Interesting (24/04/2017, 18:45) Like (10) Dislike (5) Reply
      I agree with you. Not because you were born somewhere means you are from there. A person can be born anywhere. We have Virgin Islanders who were born in Puerto Rico but can't speak one word of Spanish. They know nothing about Puerto Rico. Were they born there? Certainly..Are they from Puerto Rico? Absolutely not. Having said all that, once the parents in question reside in the Virgin Islands, I think their children should be given status here right away. Like Willock said, if you can't change the UK law, change Virgin Islands law to make the children automatic Belongers. It's the right thing to do.
    • island man (25/04/2017, 06:27) Like (7) Dislike (5) Reply
      @ Interesting. The answer is yes the child is a BVIlander...
      It is the same as you going to St Thomas for one day in the hospital to give birth and your child becomes a US Citizen but not you, you are stall a BVIlander.
      Come on People the world is changing, please try to accept changes. The BVI will never be the same again as 20 years ago. we are developing in education and technology rapidly. Lets get away from things that is a reality and move on.
      Remember though, education is the key to success. Ensure to educate yourself and have a place in this changing society amongst the children of the well educated expats or you will be working for one of them...

      Be smart, be smart, be smart and put a stop to hate and Ignorance.
    • indigenous (25/04/2017, 15:44) Like (0) Dislike (6) Reply
      The indigenous peoples of the BE VI are Carib and Arawak. I challenge any BVIslander to trace their descendants 10 generations. Some people are inundated in ignorance. Also, the idea of different groups with their flags only creates unnecessary division. There can be no unity or joining of the common good. It just perpetuate "Pack" mentality.
    • vi (25/04/2017, 19:25) Like (1) Dislike (4) Reply
      Children born in the Virgin Islands to expat parents should at least be given belongership. This is something that can be granted locally. Citizenship is in the hands of the UK.
  • wise up (24/04/2017, 15:43) Like (19) Dislike (29) Reply
    Well said boss I am a tolian but "where u born is where u from me son
  • tretretrete (24/04/2017, 15:52) Like (6) Dislike (1) Reply
    You pay to have this done here and the just throw you aside....at some point some of these same kids will help to build this country in some way or the other.
  • Ok then. (24/04/2017, 15:54) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
    So that means I'm from that plane AA 356 lmao.
    • cry (25/04/2017, 19:33) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
      No, ok then..., explanation, at the time of birth, which ever country the plane or boat is closest to that will be the nationality of the child.
  • tola (24/04/2017, 15:56) Like (15) Dislike (10) Reply
    Any where in the world u born that is where u from if your child born in England u still get a passport for your child so I don't see the big deal into this
    • Lb (24/04/2017, 17:48) Like (17) Dislike (3) Reply
      Not anywhere in the world. Most countries do not subscribe to "where you born is where you from". Only about 20% of the countries in the world use that theory. EVERY other country requires you to meet certain qualifications. Right now the big USA is trying to change that law!
      • Fake News (25/04/2017, 10:42) Like (7) Dislike (2) Reply
        You are not being honest. They are not trying to change the law. What they are trying to crack down on is illegal immigration.
    • Bushwacker (25/04/2017, 10:24) Like (21) Dislike (0) Reply
      Actually thats not correct. Your child will only get a UK Passport if one of the parents is a UK citizen at the times of the child's birth. British Nationality Act 1981 Baby!

      http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/61/pdfs/ukpga_19810061_en.pdf
  • tretretrete (24/04/2017, 16:14) Like (21) Dislike (6) Reply
    I wonder when the majority of Tortians leave the BVI and make their Child/Children in the US what status are they.
    • Bushwacker (25/04/2017, 10:26) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
      US, British, and BVI. US is one of the few countries in the world that confers citizenship by birth alone. UK and by extend BVI allows citizenship by descent. British Nationality Act 1981 Baby!

      http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/61/pdfs/ukpga_19810061_en.pdf
  • @Interesting (24/04/2017, 16:15) Like (16) Dislike (4) Reply
    So what happen to the children who were born in America of Tortolian parents? Does your line of thinking include them? Do you know what will happen to these kids if the US thank that way? Do you remember what used to happen in the late seventies early eighties here? Let me tell u expats who were here legally used to hide when they were pregnant to avoid deportation and many were. Should we take the modern BVI back to that dark place? what bothers me most is the idea that some of us have...we beleive that the rest of the wolrd should bow to us just because we just happened to be born here.
    • Ain (25/04/2017, 07:27) Like (15) Dislike (0) Reply
      You seem to remember the seventies very well, but you forget that your people could not go to st. Thomas to have their babies either. The stories have been told that in order for to travel to st. Thomas pregnant in those days the women tied their bellys and wore serverl tight under garment not to appear pregnant so they wont be sent back to Tortola. So when you speak of that period of time remember that too. I just read these stories and laugh, because we seem to think heaven and hell have belongers status. We are all going to leave this behind at some piont. When you get before God he is not going to ask are you a belonger or non belonger. Lol. You people acting like this status can make or break you. That should be the least of our worries earthly status people of both sides of the issue change your thinking start thinking on where you will spend eternity will it be with God in paradise or with the devil in hell think on this things insted of fighting for earthly rights.
  • Real Hypocrites (24/04/2017, 16:29) Like (27) Dislike (13) Reply
    All Tolian run to US soil to make their kids so that they can get all the USA has to offer, but it is not ok for kids born in Tortola to benefit from where they born. That's wrong. Small Island, Small minds.
    • agreed (24/04/2017, 17:24) Like (9) Dislike (9) Reply
      Agreed 100%!! Can these Virgin Islanders explain that one so we can all understand? Why cant a person born here be entitled to automatic citizenship? What is unfair about that? Where Virgin Islanders go and have their babies in the US which happens OFTEN since time immemorial, don't such babies automatically get US citizenship? Isnt that the reason you go and have your babies in the US to begin with?
    • tolian to the bone (24/04/2017, 20:44) Like (9) Dislike (7) Reply
      What do you know about all Tolians? I am 100 percent Tolian going back for generations and My child was
      Born at Peebles Hospital, so you speak what you do not know. If you ask me it is a dangerous thing to do
      As land space is already an issue.
    • @Real Hypocrites (24/04/2017, 21:46) Like (6) Dislike (4) Reply
      You are speaking out of pure ignorance when so say "All Tollian run to US soil." That is an incorrect generalization to say ALL. My parents chose not to and and there are many of BVI parents that made that decision too. There are many but not ALL BVIslanders rush for US status.
  • concern (24/04/2017, 16:40) Like (23) Dislike (7) Reply
    I was born in St. Thomas and raised in the BVI - and when asked where I'm from - I say just that - where I was born and where I was raised. I was raised BVI so I'm a BVIslander at heart - but we all know my passport blue. So people stop the foolishness. It is pure hypocrisy - because as a people we do this all the time - give birth in the US and bring them back to the BVI and now they have dual citizenship. But what good for the goose not for gander.

    These children are being born and raised in the BVI it is where they call home - I can see the issue now if they were being born here an then going back to their native country. Stop it fellow BVIslanders, we are making our country look stupid with this law.
    • Expat (25/04/2017, 01:13) Like (5) Dislike (4) Reply
      I totally agree with you. Plain selfishness and we call ourselves Christians.
      It's ok for us to go to St. Thomas, Puerto Rico and the mainland and have our children and return with a blue passport for them,. As an educator, for the record, I sometimes have to ask the children where they are from. I always find it so fascinating when some of them tell me they are from Puerto Rico yet they are failing Spanish. Can't speak a word of their native tongue. The longest some of them spent there is one week.
      Yet these same people don't want my child who was born at Peebles, grow up here, go to school here, represent the country, don't know anther home, speak tolian to get a passport from here. Plain selfishness and that is one of the reasons there is a serious lack of patriotism here and we complain. How do you expect the children to feel when you treat them like that?
  • son of the soil (24/04/2017, 16:45) Like (27) Dislike (16) Reply
    These outsider should have been going back to their country after 7 years, We have created a monster.
    • Caribs & Arawaks (24/04/2017, 19:37) Like (3) Dislike (3) Reply
      This very soil will spit you out!
    • @son of the soil (24/04/2017, 22:37) Like (2) Dislike (3) Reply
      When you get the h€ll off of OUR COUNTRY, then we OUTSIDERS will get the h€ll off of YOUR COUNTRY!!! Sounds fair?
  • w ho don't hear will feel (24/04/2017, 16:47) Like (32) Dislike (16) Reply
    These people know the UK law and they are willfully getting their kids here to complicate things
  • THIS IS OUR LAW AND OUR COUNTRY (24/04/2017, 16:50) Like (14) Dislike (24) Reply
    ALL PREGNANT LADIES ON PERMITS SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO STAY IN THE COUNTRY AFTER 6 MONTHS OF PREGNANCY
    • @This is our Law and our country (24/04/2017, 18:59) Like (8) Dislike (22) Reply
      Excuse us people are trying to have an educational here. Bet u have no formal education.
    • THE BVI NEED ALL PEOPLE (24/04/2017, 21:43) Like (4) Dislike (2) Reply
      If that was to happen the BVI lander population would be very small. Is best you tell all the persons who are not from here to go back where they come from. Then it would not have enough money to circulate in the BVI and the economy will crumble. Look at the police fore more than half are not from the B.V.I or was happen to born here. Look at the school system again more than half are none locals. Can I go on? Look at the hospital more than half not from the B.V.I
    • Expat. (25/04/2017, 01:26) Like (5) Dislike (2) Reply
      You are a selfish moron. I wonder if u are aware that some of these ladies get pregnant fi aye u . But I guess you don't care. Just like a bull dog.
      • . (26/04/2017, 02:58) Like (1) Dislike (2) Reply
        Then they should learn about birth control or keep their darm foot closed from coming here breaking up BVI families to further their own agenda to get a child here as an anchor.
  • oh (24/04/2017, 16:57) Like (13) Dislike (8) Reply
    So hear me now.....how comes tolans love to go born their child/children in the USA. They child get passport etc and they dont have a problem with that....so if an expat live here born their child her how comes tolans have a prob with that.......if is not the same.
    • rewrsdffds (24/04/2017, 17:26) Like (15) Dislike (2) Reply
      Perhaps because USVI is a greater extension to USA, a big nation with over $300million people whereas, despite our British Connections, BVI has separate rights/privileges that are bestowed among people. Do you think the BVI itself can automatically give every single child born here Belonger Status and a BVI Passport as soon as they are born? If USVI had the same segregation as BVI with the USA, do you think being born there would give us an automatic USVI Passport, if there was one? You cannot compare USVI to BVI at all. If you are saying that all kids born in British Overseas Territories get British status right away then that may make more sense as it will be directly linked to the UK which is also a big nation. But to give everybody Belonger status and the same voting, property ownership, business ownership as a BVIslander off the rip, you are asking for trouble. Then we will have pure anchor babies in the place. I know it seems harsh but reality is reality.
      • tretretrete (25/04/2017, 14:28) Like (9) Dislike (0) Reply
        at ok I completely agree with you. People need to stop comparing the BVI to the USA. The USA has tons of resources and the BVI does not. We are a small country with limited resources and we must protect our limited resources from outsiders who only wish to milk the BVI. St. John failed to do and now look at them over there; they can't even afford to buy property. Many immigrants come to the BVI and get pregnant deliberately because they want anchor babies; some of them are not even in the country for a year before getting pregnant; they clearly have an agenda. PR and the USVI do not feel the strain of immigrants because they are apart of the united states and persons born in those countries can live in any state in America. The BVI is tiny in comparison and if we fail to protect our resources there won't be anything to pass on to future generations and our country will be run by outsiders.
    • Twofaced (24/04/2017, 19:11) Like (15) Dislike (4) Reply
      Leave the Tolian out of your drama. The USVI and BVI have special ties and certain privileges were afforded to us. Why the expat doesn't go to St. Thomas and born them children, eh? We have a law that we cannot change now. If this is posing a problem, let them go home and born them child. Then we wouldn't have this problem. They done want to beat us down in our own place. Who send call yoh? You so like your country, go born your child there. BVI sometimes, and your big country sometimes. Take your big country and leave the small island. It has nothing to offer, or only a passport?
    • fact (25/04/2017, 04:47) Like (5) Dislike (2) Reply
      Every nation born them children in America and the President trying to change that.
  • PoliTRIX (24/04/2017, 16:57) Like (13) Dislike (0) Reply
    Pure old talk from all sides, not a man will do anything about this because the current system benefits them more and make them more powerful because they are always asked for 'help'. Give it a rest, there are many more pressing things to deal with.!
  • Jack B Nimble (24/04/2017, 17:14) Like (11) Dislike (2) Reply
    All I know this issue is a winning issue next election. Don't underestimate the voting power of expats.
    • 20YEARSVOTING (24/04/2017, 19:23) Like (16) Dislike (10) Reply
      When the anchor babies start to outnumber all the bvislanders and the expats because they will take advantage of that rule, and they will outnumber us, and in 20 years they will be running this country, then you all who here barking for instant citizenship will understand then how the country would be stolen from beneath you Our situation will be anchor-boomers, Phillipinoes, Arabs, Expats, some don't-know-who-they are Virgin Islanders and Haters Expats will be voting for the New Breed Anchor Politicians, then you will understand what time it is. WHERE THERE IS NO VISION, THE PEOPLE PERISH.
      • Not on the U.K.'s watch (01/05/2017, 10:23) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        That could happen, if expats or their children had the rights to vote or run for office. If we are over run by non-belonged, the voter pool will be a few choosing the leaders and a marginalized society run by the minority. Which is a fast fall into chaos!
        What they need to implement, which has been the only suggestion I see working and appeasing staunch anchor-baby haters is give the children resident status while enrolled in school. So yes apply for the child to reside and if you're still in the territory when the child is ready to attend school, you can apply for residence status. Not sure if they have residence cards or not, but they need to look into that.
    • Love for My Country (24/04/2017, 23:07) Like (10) Dislike (2) Reply
      I am so disgusted with persons using this argument for the sake of collecting votes and deceiving people. All those who are spouting off their mouths are just fooling people. They know that BVI is an Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom and like the other Overseas Territories we are bound by the British Nationality Act. We are not an independent country that can make our own laws regarding citizenship. That we could do if we are independent which we are not. People need to stop playing politics and fooling people. All who want to vote over the issue next election would not be any better off unless UK changes its citizenship laws as far as its dependent countries are concerned or BVI become independent! The issue has been around long before NDP!
  • DON Q (24/04/2017, 17:29) Like (14) Dislike (5) Reply
    Willock we voting for you bottom line
  • Y3 (24/04/2017, 17:36) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
    The same is because so much that they are from here they are going to Puerto Rico ect. That you are going to keep your children and passport passport I do not understand why a person who has work permit and is pregnant and has all his papers burned that he is legally do not understand because the child does not passport to him if to where you are born of there is that You are here BVI they become stupid ..
    • wow must be a expat (25/04/2017, 16:00) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
      this comment alone is stupid yall come to the promise land n want to take over we cant do none of the crazy things yall do here in the bvi in yall countries n get away with it
  • pat (24/04/2017, 17:39) Like (9) Dislike (3) Reply
    Well sah funny man met his match
  • Interesting Part 2 (24/04/2017, 17:42) Like (23) Dislike (5) Reply
    I am listening to your arguments and fine,
    Tortolians do go to the USA to get status. That doesn't make it right.
    Yes people do take advantage of certain opportunities, and this is what you immigrants are trying to do/create here. It doesn't make it right though.
    And before our country gets to a point that it allows every and anybody to get rights (like America does) , I will stand against that. You're comparing your situation to what Tortolians do...but look what America is going through..do you really want that to become the BVI's reality ??hm

    Why do you think Trump wants to stop that. The ideal situation is not to accept immigrants and allow them to become our own ...else, what will stop the others from coming??
    And in no time...all of our resources will depreciation EXTENSIVELY.
    The BVI needs to be for the BVI...not Jamaica, Guyana, Dominican Republic and the others. And don't get what I'm saying twisted, we accept you all with open arms ...but the end of the day...WE have to look out for our best interests ...
    Because when things get bad, you all can up and leave and we have to stay.
    • Interesting 2 correction (24/04/2017, 18:14) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
      Depreciate***
    • bomba... (24/04/2017, 20:26) Like (4) Dislike (3) Reply
      So you are agreeing with TRUMP to prove a point!? WHAT IN DE RIPE ****? You can't deny birth rites to people and think it is okay.... IT IS INHUMANE.
  • Lb (24/04/2017, 17:53) Like (16) Dislike (3) Reply
    This argument about well BVI people go to the USA to "bahn their children" just to get rights, so it is hypocritical to not allow the same thing in the BVI is FOOLISHNESS! If the USA is dumb enough to allow the flood gates to open and we can take advantage of it then that is their business. That don't mean we have to allow it here too. Right now the USA is trying to change that very law so that if you are born in the USA, you are NOT automatically a US citizen. SO give me a break. This isn't ethics class. Your country has a weak law that people can exploit then it is ok to exploit the law. Doesn't mean we have to reciprocate. Also, laws that have minimal effect on a larger country, can have devastating effects on a smaller country like the BVI. SO because the USA does it, don't mean we need to do it. Meet the qualifications, and then get your citizenship or ask you parents to bahn you elsewhere. LOL
    • @ LB (25/04/2017, 19:16) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      Enough of this US bashing. Nerve of you to talk about the US. being so dumb enough to let the flood gates open. So for now, LET'S FESS UP, Mr Lb. That's why we're buying all of your land in return. So, I say you're just as dumb as we were. See, so the $HIT WORKS OUT JUST RIGHT for us all. And remember this also. TRUMP IS GREAT TRUMP IS GOOD. We are here to STAY STAY STAY in the BVI.
  • Interesting Part 3 (24/04/2017, 17:53) Like (19) Dislike (11) Reply
    I've read what someone said in these very comments....that the expats shouldn't underestimate their power and something along the line with voting during election for the party that will change this law...something like that


    THIS IS EXACTLY MY POINT AND MY PROBLEM

    Some of you immigrants came here, got your rights and now basically you all can determine the fate of the country...
    One problem ..IT ISNT YOURS

    This isn't your country...your voice shouldn't be bigger than a local's ....and when you all get rights at birth , this is going to be exactly the case. You guys are going to out number us in elections and all of that which isn't fair BECAUSE YOURE NOT FROM HERE.

    As I said, if I was born in Japan...I'm not Japanese . My history is here in the very roots of this country...yours is elsewhere

    Hence, we all know that ALLLLL immigrants loyalty is not with the county.
    For example, I'll refer to a video that was circulating in recent months . A female police officer was confronting a local scooter rider. He maybe said something about her being from 'down island ' or whatever ....and the policewoman said and I quote
    "I gladdddd I'm not from here"
    Very bold

    You see the problem now? We're letting y'all in and some aren't even thankful that we have them a better life...that they could send their remittances back home to their poor countries...they don't even have Virgin Islands pride!
    So why should you have rights here.

    Our country must be a big fat mumu for that
    • Interesting 3 correction (24/04/2017, 18:15) Like (0) Dislike (4) Reply
      Gave them**
    • Just saying... (26/04/2017, 12:50) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
      That police officer should be disciplined for such an inappropriate comment!! She is the one wearing uniform!! No national pride for the BVI. That is the crux of the matter right there. I trust she does not want to pop out no picknee here either, because she will be a bigger two faced crook than most.
  • Boo (24/04/2017, 18:53) Like (18) Dislike (3) Reply

    I am really sick of this $*it now. Here is the link to the British Nationality Act 1981:

    http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/61/pdfs/ukpga_19810061_en.pdf

    Please, Please! all of you arm chair experts give it a read. Section 36 and schedule 2 have provision for grant of citizenship for persons who otherwise would be stateless.

    As noted by Mr Willock the number of countries that DO NOT grant automatic citizenship by birth far outnumber the ones that do. The rules of a country are its rules. You do not have the right to come and make your own!

    This is a matter for the British Parliament please stop with all of the BVI bashing and read your $h*t before chatting crap in the comments section. Please people edify yourself!

  • DON Q (24/04/2017, 19:02) Like (7) Dislike (4) Reply
    Ndp must go
  • BVI4EVER (24/04/2017, 19:33) Like (19) Dislike (7) Reply
    You said it right, Interesting Part 3. Sock it to them. We don't run no other place looking citizenship, but they running here and want to tell us how to run our country. If you don't like it, just LEAVE. Abide by our laws or LEAVE. Stop harrassing us, man. Why you don't want to born your child where you were born, ehh? It was good enough to pup you out, but you can't pup yours in your own country? Allyou hear the 'juice' for me. And that's a good reason why "island men" should not run the BVI. There is no patriotism. They do not understand how the people struggled to be where they are today.
    • voiceofthevoiceless (24/04/2017, 21:49) Like (7) Dislike (5) Reply
      @BVI4EVER
      "We don't run no other place looking citizenship, but they running here and want to tell us how to run our country".

      Is this factual? BVI Islanders have for years traveled to St Thomas, Puerto Rico and the US mainland to give birth to their children? If that is not looking citizenship well please tell me what is.
  • So (24/04/2017, 19:53) Like (4) Dislike (3) Reply

    Anchor babys but urs was born in the USA don't he are she is an American damn it man pls stop this

  • wet (24/04/2017, 20:35) Like (1) Dislike (6) Reply
    thanks JW as their function as lawmaker is to express concern
    that persons are operating without reason
  • Me (24/04/2017, 20:40) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    It is VERY frustrating to normal people who born here to go get time
    • Bushwacker (25/04/2017, 06:13) Like (11) Dislike (1) Reply
      Same as if you were borne to expat parents in the UK.

      British Nationality Act 1981 Baby! Read it!

      http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/61/pdfs/ukpga_19810061_en.pdf
  • ta ta (24/04/2017, 20:54) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply
    Sorry to say Myron Walwyn is all bag a mouth !!!
  • Me (24/04/2017, 20:56) Like (14) Dislike (10) Reply
    Reading some of these comments I am appalled by the hatred of some BVI islanders towards people from other countries. It goes to show that an expat can come to the BVI; work their butt off, pay all their taxes, obey the laws of the BVI, travel to promote the BVI etc, and the smallmindness of some BVI persons never ceases to amaze me. If it wasn't for some of those expats like Peter Haycraft etc I wonder what you would have been saying about the BVI when it was a bird sanctuary!
    • Sherlock (25/04/2017, 16:40) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
      The very example you named, came here for a reason, he saw it and capitalized, so YEAHH! Super BVI for him. It wasn't a one way relationship, he became a millionaire off the BVI. Nothing wrong with that, but know your damn place.
      The BVI must protect its people, and that's the whole crux of the matter. Open season will not happen here.
    • Me Too (26/04/2017, 13:00) Like (3) Dislike (1) Reply
      You obviously have no respect for the BVI and its citizens based on the disparaging comments you posted. I am appalled by your hate as well. But you know what it never ceases to amaze me how you will label us and be most ungrateful. Its in your nature. It is exactly the reason many BVIslanders resent most Belongers. We, BVIslanders, made Peter Haycraft into who he is today. We got goods and he got our hard earned money. He benefitted just as equally, if not more. Before Peter Haycraft, there was the same St. Thomas where many BVIslanders shopped via the barter system and later with cash. Learn our history from talking nonsense.
  • voiceofthevoiceless (24/04/2017, 21:35) Like (8) Dislike (2) Reply
    There is a lot to be said on this topic but let me first start by saying that Myron and the rest of you politicians please stop fooling the people. You have been giving lip service for far too long on this topic. Since 2011 NDP was returned to power and a matter of fact in 2015 they held on to power more emphatically than the first time where Hon. Walwyn received the highest number of votes in the history of BVI politics. Hon. Walwyn is a learned Lawyer who should know what is necessary to right this moral injustice, so get it done. It has been 6 years!

    I believe the purpose of the law in the first instance was to prevent people from coming to the UK and its overseas Territories just to make children to get a passport. This is something that the US allows but the UK chose to prevent. Well why not at least try for a compromise where children born of expatriate parents can only become immediate citizens if their parents were living here 3 years or more.

    Children do not choose where they to born. It is unfair to punish them simply because of their parent's choice. I find the UK and these countries that support such a law are hypocritical and may well be infringing on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that provides a general right to nationality under article 15. Imagine if the parent's countries decide not to issue the child a passport? So you have a passportless/stateless child.

    What amazes me is that if one of these children who we have left stateless at birth become famous whether by athletic, musical, academic or other means whether we all of a sudden recognize that they are one of our own? I remember well how the BVI was jumping and shouting how Melanie Amaro was one of theirs. Talk that.

    Children without identity, what a shame. How can anyone support this moral injustice?

    On another note for those who say that persons who have worked and toiled to help build this country for 10-20 years do not have a right to an equal say or a right to nationality in their adoptive country? Something is not right about that line of thought.
    • Bushwacker (24/04/2017, 23:51) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
      British Nationality ACT Buddy. Read it.
      http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/61/pdfs/ukpga_19810061_en.pdf
      Section 36 provisions to prevent statelessness

      otherwise Mamma UK and Lizzy Regina say no automatic passport.
  • Have a heat (24/04/2017, 22:01) Like (7) Dislike (4) Reply
    All that is said by the B.v.I landers is understood but some great invalid points were made. Let me now give you something to think about. A child should be given the rights of the country he or she was born in. There is a big division between locals and none locals but it needs to be stopped. These same none locals are the ones running the country. I personally was born in the B.V.I from both none local parents but I go to many different countries and represent the B.V.I. In these same comments persons said none locals should go back to their home country to make their children. Well imagine you telling me I should have been born were my mother is from. Well if I was who would have been representing the B.V.I. Look at our government we have ministers who parents are not from here and the happen to be born here. Our Deputy premier his father is not from here, our minister of communication and works, our education minister. Today we need these people but you are saying the should have been born where there parents are from? Look at our police fore, teacers, doctors,layers, how many officers are at least 2 generation B.V.I landers?
    MAY I GO ON
    • Bushwacler (24/04/2017, 23:52) Like (3) Dislike (1) Reply
      British Nationality Act 1981 Buddy....Read it!

      http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/61/pdfs/ukpga_19810061_en.pdf
    • SYMU (25/04/2017, 10:06) Like (11) Dislike (7) Reply
      Bag of air. Please ask the non-Virgin Islanders to obey the laws. The British Nationality Act is in place, take your argument to the UK. Virgin Islanders didn't put the law there. When you go in a man's country, respect and obey the laws. When you went to Signapore, you spat on the streets and chew gum? No, but because we are a different shade, you want to tell our people how to run our country? Yes, those who said it in your face, say it again, whoever cannot abide by our laws, please do not stay in the BVI. If you want to be here, then, My God, let the lawmakers do their job and SYMU.
    • ROFLAW (25/04/2017, 12:38) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
      You are missing the point, have a heat. Virgin Islanders recognize that there are persons in the BVI who made significant contribution, and are still making, to the Territory. If you were born in another country and you moved here, if you love the country you would have made your contribution also. What the issue is and no one wants to abide by it is that a law is in place, the British Nationality Act, which created the position on the children. Why can't those who are demanding follow the current process? Migration is something that happens all over the world, BVI no exception. The big USA is a land of immigrants. Do not overlook the fact that the BVINAct states how a person can be a citizen. Can you please abide by that? Comes down to the same point, if you do not like it, you don't have to stay, but the fact that you are staying indicates that you want to be here. Then, for Christ sake, let the Rule of Law serve its purpose.
  • wize up (24/04/2017, 22:24) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
    need young blood in political office.....
  • War War Stupid War (24/04/2017, 22:59) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Who wants to be a from here or a from there anyway. Thank God all you here mehson. All you sound so stupid. The earth is borrowed our time on earth short. Stop the f;&$king stupid divisiveness. I wish if I could whip everybody behind that blog stupidness here. All you go find better to do.
  • Expat (25/04/2017, 01:20) Like (5) Dislike (2) Reply
    To son of the soil. I agree with you. We outsiders ( doctors, teachers, lawyers, construction workers, helpers, we people who rent your apartments ) should be sent back home after 7 years and the BVI would be a much better place. Problem solved.
    • wize up (25/04/2017, 06:39) Like (6) Dislike (2) Reply
      @ expat: no administration will send white non belonger from this BVI after 7 years: dont worry about the passport; when the white folks begin to lobby His Exelency the Governor that matter will be resolved: the white expat is granted far more leverage that black expats: white folks in this territory have far more financial influence than black expats and in some cases the white expat dictate how our political system function:
  • Expat (25/04/2017, 01:47) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply
    All of this stems from xenophobia. We don't want to admit it but it's what killi
    • Bushwacker (25/04/2017, 10:33) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply
      Shaking my head. Why are you so ignorant? It stems from the British Nationality Act 1981 passed by the UK Parliament Baby!

      http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/61/pdfs/ukpga_19810061_en.pdf
  • British Nationality Act 1981 (25/04/2017, 02:03) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    BRITISH CITIZENSHIP
    Acquisition after commencement
    1.-(1) A person born in the United Kingdom after com- Acquisition
    mencement shall be a British citizen if at the time of the birth by birth or
    his father or mother is- adoption.
    (a) a British citizen ; or
    (b) settled in the United Kingdom.
    (2) A new-born infant who, after commencement, is found
    abandoned in the United Kingdom shall, unless the contrary
    is shown, be deemed for the purposes of subsection (1)- ,
    (a) to have been born in the United Kingdom after commencement
    ; and
    (b) to have been born to a parent who at the time of
    the birth was a British citizen or settled in the United
    Kingdom.
    2 c. 61 British Nationality Act 1981
    PART I (3) A person born in the United Kingdom after commencement
    who is not a British citizen by virtue of subsection (1)
    or (2) shall be entitled to be registered as a British citizen if,
    while he is a minor-
    (a) his father or mother becomes a British citizen or becomes
    settled in the United Kingdom ; and
    (b) an application is made for his registration as a British
    citizen.
    (4) A person born in the United Kingdom after commencement
    who is not a British citizen by virtue of subsection (1) or
    (2) shall be entitled, on an application for his registration as a
    British citizen made at any time after he has attained the age of
    ten years, to be registered as such a citizen if, as regards each of
    the first ten years of that person's life, the number of days on
    which he was absent from the United Kingdom in that year does
    not exceed 90.
    (5) Where after commencement an order authorising the
    adoption of a minor who is not a British citizen is made by any
    court in the United Kingdom, he shall be a British citizen as
    from the date on which the order is made if the adopter or, in
    the case of a joint adoption, one of the adopters is a British
    citizen on that date.
    (6) Where an order in consequence of which any person
    became a British citizen by virtue of subsection (5) ceases to have
    effect, whether on annulment or otherwise, the cesser shall not
    affect the status of that person as a British citizen.
    (7) If in the special circumstances of any particular case the
    Secretary of State thinks fit, he may for the purposes of subsection
    (4) treat the person to whom the application relates as fulfilling
    the requirement specified in that subsection although, as
    regards any one or more of the first ten years of that person's life,
    the number of days on which he was absent from the United
    Kingdom in that year or each of the years in question exceeds
    90.
    (8) In this section and elsewhere in this Act " settled " has
    the meaning given by section 50.
    Acquisition 2.-(1) A person born outside the United Kingdom after comby
    descent. mencement shall be a British citizen if at the time of the birth
    his father or mother-
    (a) is a British citizen otherwise than by descent ; or
    (b) is a British citizen and is serving outside the United
    Kingdom in service to which this paragraph applies,
    his or her recruitment for that service having taken
    place in the United Kingdom ; or

  • one love (25/04/2017, 05:04) Like (9) Dislike (4) Reply
    I am an expat, I understand that there are laws governing status quo with regards to issuing of passports. My issue is, why does a parent/s of a child/ren who was born and raised in this territory, have to seek permission to reside here?

    Let's say these very same kid/s become Olympic worthy or excel in any other area in their lives, only then are they recognized. They become hero/es. They become ambassador/s to the territory. I wrote all this to say to treat our children fairly because we never know who they are in the making. A nobel laureate, an Olympic champion, a Grammy award artiste, an internationally recognized doctor,etc.
    #one love
    • Bushwacker (25/04/2017, 10:37) Like (4) Dislike (4) Reply
      Let me direct your attention to the BVI Passport and Immigration Ordinances CAP 130 where all of your answers will be found. You may request a copy from the BVI Passport Office



  • every coin has 2 side (25/04/2017, 05:54) Like (5) Dislike (3) Reply
    I was bourn outside the BVI my Dad is From here my mom is not , I lived here allllllll my life I travel on a BVI passport the VI in my veins in my heart its ALLL I know and anyone ask where am from LOUD and PROUD THE BVI and not a ma jack could make me feel any other way !!!! I have NO attachment to the place of my birth not even a passport.
  • lord o. (25/04/2017, 06:22) Like (5) Dislike (0) Reply
    Willock is a Wize Man. He is paving the path for a run in the Next Election..
  • island man (25/04/2017, 06:34) Like (6) Dislike (2) Reply
    Where ever you were born that's where you will be issued your Birth Certificate, a child born in Tortola cannot gat a birth certificate from Grenada or Trinidad.
    A child born in STT cannot get a birth certificate from Tortola
    If you are born in Puerto Rico and cannot speak Spanish you are still Puerto-Rician because they got your birth rights in their registry. lol
    Just so you can understand where you are from.
    Is this simple enough???
    • @Island Man (25/04/2017, 13:12) Like (7) Dislike (3) Reply

      A birth certificate doesn't give you rights in a country.... I am pretty sure the children who are complaining about not having status have their Virgin Islands issued birth certificate. Seriously, you can't be that slow.

      • dumb (25/04/2017, 16:34) Like (5) Dislike (2) Reply
        The person was just showing an example that where you are born you are documented. Meaning you are from there... and not your parents birth country...
        • @dumb (25/04/2017, 17:36) Like (4) Dislike (4) Reply
          A birth certificate doesn't give you Citizenship. So because a country issued your birth paper that means you're from there? You all really this slow? It means you were "born there", which I think we all agree on.... The issue at hand is should all children born in the Virgin Islands be given a Virgin Islands passport. You all keep harping about where you born is where you from. Clearly many countries don't see it that way. Like someone said, if I tourist gets a child in the BVI, is that child from the BVI?? Of course not. Were they born here? Yes, but they are not from here. They are American. Would the BVI issue their Birth Certificate? Of course! They would be an American who was born in the BVI. If they spent their whole life in the BVI would I consider them a Virgin Islander? In that case. maybe.......
  • one eye (25/04/2017, 07:17) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    I do not trust the ndp on this issue
  • Impartial (25/04/2017, 08:10) Like (6) Dislike (6) Reply
    As an expat, I understand the frustration about our children in a sense 'limbo' status of identity. More shockingly the fact that one must pay a yearly fee for a child who was born here the to reside with their expat parents. I also understand the need for the indigenous to protect his own country. Given these two sides there can be some common grounds met by both sides. Rights should be given by an outside independant body...not by who you know. An expat should be in good standing behaviour wise and owe no debt that would have caused burden on the economy. A five to ten year period is sufficient to prove themselves. Twenty years? That's your whole abled life. Rights should be granted but fairly and within reason.
    • Bushwacker (25/04/2017, 10:21) Like (3) Dislike (4) Reply
      We can talk about this till the cows come home but, British Nationality Act 1981 baby!
      http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1981/61/pdfs/ukpga_19810061_en.pdf
      • tretretrete (25/04/2017, 14:38) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
        The children of immigrants should not be given automatic citizenship in the BVI unless their parents have lived int the BVI for at least five years. This will prevent the anchor baby scenario and demonstrate the seriousness of the immigrants in living in and contributing to the BVI over the long term.
    • chad (28/04/2017, 07:12) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
      An expart gains marital status through marriage .He/she is able to bring their children who were not born up here, without
      much difficulty.
      Now a child who was born and raised here has to wait 18? There's nothing wrong with the system? You tell me and talk that.
  • Just saying (25/04/2017, 09:37) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
    I'm from planet earth, we need a passport for those from planet Earth and for those who live on Mars
  • Online Now (25/04/2017, 09:48) Like (3) Dislike (0) Reply
    At least what I admire about Mr. Willock is, he does his homework before he speaks unlike others
  • foxy (25/04/2017, 10:14) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply
    Jw getting good milage he is bright and understand the issues
  • Expat (25/04/2017, 11:22) Like (5) Dislike (6) Reply
    You know what's interesting? When it suits us we support Britain's reign over us. Other times we cus the governor and say we want independece. Some of us don't even respect the national anthem. Hypocrites.
  • rattie (25/04/2017, 13:09) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
    Willock said in a nut shell; Myron go sit down
  • ABC (25/04/2017, 13:10) Like (1) Dislike (3) Reply
    The Esteem one is right in drawing attention to this issue and calling out Walwyn, even if it probably won’t make him very popular but we still voting JW all the way.
  • Irony (25/04/2017, 13:49) Like (16) Dislike (1) Reply
    I find it hilarious that a nation full of "Christians" can't understand citizenship.

    Doesn't the Christmas story teach that Mary and Joseph had to travel to Bethlehem because there was a census and Joseph's ancestors were not from Nazareth but from Bethlehem? Regardless of where Joseph was born he still had to go where his family was from, pregnant wife and all. You aren't from where you were born but from where your parents are citizens.

    Baldhead and all the others are just playing dirty politics. They know the constitution and they know fully well that this law they keep debating isn't even a VI law but a British law. We didn't write it but we have to follow it. Why? Because as much leeway as we get, we're still British and counted in the UK and in UK laws, you can only be born British if born to British parents. This is why children born to VIslanders outside the VI can still be British (and a VIslander) but children born to non-VIslanders in the VI cannot.

    This whole debacle makes me wonder; why are there so many leaders and popular figures who won't stand for the VI and continuously bad talk the country and the people? They won't stand for us and defend our reputation when we get called a tax haven and money launders (despite the fact that we jump through every single hoop every time). They won't stand up for us when the UN is always accusing us of human rights violations despite the fact that the shinning pillar of a country in which the UN's base still has the death penalty (which is against human rights). Why are we letting international bodies telling us how to be when they are a bunch of hypocrites?

    Go read the wiki page for the VI in regards to citizenship, we aren't the the only ones with citizenship laws like ours yet still we get thrown under the bus like VIslanders are just hateful and xenophobic. Why are our leaders allowing for our image to be besmirched like this?

    These leaders continuously look down on the people of the VI like everything we've ever done was wrong and we only got to where we are by luck. They look down on VIsladers like we're all a bunch of $#!+ throwing troglodytes who need to be dragged into the modern time. They stand up and tell us we should have national pride while celebrating the diversity of everyone and talk about honouring our forefathers when our leaders spit on the teachings they left us. They have shallow roots and blow wherever the moral wind takes them. They don't care about anything and will stomp on expats just like how they stomp on VIslanders now when they get whatever it is they are after.

    I sympathise with the children of expats because of regardless of their parents actions, they are innocent in all this but my sympathy can only go so far. Regardless of the innocence of the children, their parents are not. Expats make up a large percent of the VI and they have helped the VI a lot but even then... expats do you not know you are still a guest here? Whether you've been here 10 hours or 10 years if you aren't a citizen or resident you won't have the same rights as such and you should adjust your behaviour so accordingly. You are all adults and shouldn't have to be lectured. You know your children can't be VIslanders and if you don't know why maybe the visa process should include a test (like Australia). Why don't you actually plan your paregnancies and make arrangements so your child won't be stateless. This is as much an individual problem as it is a legal problem. If the argument is you've been here long enough to be granted rights then take the initiative apply for nationality (it's not automatically given anywhere, you have to apply for it and take a citizenship test).

    This is what happens when you have a country where the indigenous people are the minority and the vision is lost. You get a vocal and frustrated majority that either don't know or don't respect the laws and traditions, a silenced and frustrated minority that can't truly rein the population (both sides that think each are entitled and can't see eye to eye) and a bunch of spineless, people-pleasing, cannibalising leaders who act like the fatest rats on a sinking ship.
  • Don't forget please... (25/04/2017, 15:15) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    That we all going back to the land not the land going back with us. Count our simplest blessings because someone else has it worse.
  • de silent one (25/04/2017, 20:15) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    No surprises in a country where double standards class prejudice and moral degregation are the threads that wove the fabric of this society.
  • 911 (25/04/2017, 21:32) Like (1) Dislike (4) Reply
    The Myron Walwyn is quickly showing that he has an endless supply of two things:

    1) Irony
    2) Hypocrisy

    There is only one thing this will lead to in the end:

    Calamity
  • wow (25/04/2017, 23:20) Like (2) Dislike (6) Reply
    This is very hypocritical. Some BV ISLANDERS VENTURE OUT INTO THE USA TO HAVE THEIR KIDS AND ITSNOT A PROBLEM BUT AS SOON AS AN EXPAT AND DOWN ISLAND MAN AS AYO WOULD SAY HAVE THEIR KIDS HERE IS A PROBLEM. WHAT A SHAMEFUL SOCIETY WE LIVE IN, NO GODLINESS, NO KINDESS AND PURE EVIL. FOR DUST WE HAVE COME AND TO DUST WE WILL RETURN REGARDLESS OF WHICH PASSPORT WE HOLD. SMH THIS EVIL DUTTY PLACE MEHSON.
    • VITIES (27/04/2017, 11:31) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
      USVI and BVI has strong ties which may not be broken easily. Where Virgin Islanders got their children is not an issue to be debated by expats. Leave that out, and focus on the issue which is the status of children born to expats in the BVI. Focus your discourse around that and the British Nationality Act. The VI gave you an opportunity to work and live here and there are specific laws in place concerning citizenship. Listen, people, when that law is changed, you avail yourself of the benefits of it. In the meantime, do not tell us in the VI how to run our country. Some expats too out of place when they come in another man's country. Do you go to America, Canada and all the other places you travel to legally or illegally and tell them how to run their country? Resounding, no. Then, please, abide or don't reside.
  • Golong (27/04/2017, 11:39) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
    Who Virgin Islander would call the land of their ancestors and forefathers "evil and dutty"? You see, got to be one who is not of us. They live among us and cussing us and our country. All I would like to know is this: Why then are you here? If you think the place dutty and evil, then go back to your country where those adjectives would be naught. Not a mortal soul got you here tied down. And we will say it over and over again. They gave you a little work, work and keep out of how we run our country. You overstepping your bounds. We will get it right without your non-patriotic views. Golong!!
  • real virgin islander (27/04/2017, 15:38) Like (0) Dislike (2) Reply
    The next thing they are going to demand is virgin islanders' land. These people are like cancer, they keep growing their demands. The laws mean nothing to them. All they have to do is get a passport from their country, but they don't want that, instead, they are trying to bully virgin islanders into giving them the territory.

    I don't see why the parents are still here in the first place. Isn't there time limits as to how long you can stay in another man's country? Instead of the minister of education defending our constitution, he is fighting for those who are here illegally. But he did say he can no longer protect the people. Walwyn is just another member of the Trojan horse that is here to destroy the Virgin Islands. The UN cannot force a country to accept illegal aliens just because they like the VI better than their own country.
  • ➗➗➗ (28/04/2017, 07:20) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    Let us all treat others the way we would like to be treated. Three major topics which divides our world today are politics, religion and race / nationality.
  • me and mee alone (28/04/2017, 08:18) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    I read everything everyone had to say about how the bvi doing this and doing that. Here in the bvi we are priveledged to go to the US and get the benefits because we respect their laws, immigration and others. You dont so you cant have that rights, do you think we should give the same when youneither respect us nor our laws?. There are right ways to deal with any situation, but please remember that England is our Mother Country. Walwyn , willock, you nor me have that say, so please oblige..everyone of us has a home to go back to when we dont like what is going on when we are in someone else's.


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