The Solid Waste Department is faced with issues of sorting garbage at the Pockwood Pond dumpsite before it is burnt. Photo: VINO

With this initiative on board, residents of the Virgin Islands are expected to see improvements in the cleanliness of their surroundings.

According to a press release, Permanent Secretary in the Health Ministry Petrona Davies told the litter wardens that, “Keeping the Territory clean requires a culture change and we are now at a point here in the Virgin Islands where stricter enforcement of our anti-littering regulations is required, if we are to successfully bring about that change.”

Mrs. Davies encouraged the Litter Wardens to be confident in carrying out their duties and said, “Anytime new regulations are enforced, they are met with some resistance. But I urge you to call on the resources available. We must work together to ensure that keeping the Virgin Islands beautiful transcends beyond a slogan.”

The release said various persons from the private and public sectors, including the sister islands, who volunteered their services as Litter Wardens, were gathered in the training room of the Peebles Hospital where they were provided additional practical training through various role-playing scenarios to equip them to effectively carry out their duties.

Facilitator of the training session, Sergeant Selwyn Rock of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), instructed the wardens on how notices should be served and the protocol to be followed.

Sergeant Selwyn Rock of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force addressing questions raised during the training session held to commission and appoint the litter wardens. Photo credit: Ministry of Health and Social Development.

Sergeant Rock also reminded the participants of the value of professionalism and respect as it relates to maintaining a positive relationship with the community.

The release said wardens were also advised to partner with the RVIPF if difficulties arose in the line of serving notices to persons observed contravening the Litter (Abatement) Act.

It said on August 11, 2009 members of the House of Assembly voted unanimously in support of amendments to the Litter (Abatement) Act. It makes provisions for the appointment of officers employed by the Solid Waste Department and members of the Virgin Islands Auxiliary Force as ex officio litter wardens, along with Environmental Health Officers and Police Officers at all ranks.

According to the release, the prosecutorial scope for local authorities was also extended in cases where litterers are delinquent in paying any related fines. Section 4 of the Act provides for offenders who do not make related payments within 21 days to appear before a local Magistrate.

It said under the amended Act, the persons found guilty of discharging litter from a moving vehicle, transporting waste so that it becomes litter, littering public or private premises, or failing to comply with a litter removal notice, will be subjected to a maximum fine of $500 or three months imprisonment.

The release said the Ministry of Health and Social Development endeavours to provide leadership which promotes health, social wellbeing and a safe environment.