I have a 'sacred duty' to advocate for seniors- Hon Turnbull


The month of May is being recognised as Senior Citizens Month, and this year’s theme is ‘Powered by Connection’.
Speaking during the Opening and Declaration Service for Senior Citizens Month on May 2, 2025, at Cane Garden Bay Baptist Church, Hon Turnbull said: “As someone who loves both seniors and young people, I see it as a sacred duty to advocate for you, and I will continue to do so."
Hon Turnbull said the fight will include healthcare, retirement benefits, pensions, home care and everyday support so that seniors can “rightly live in these Virgin Islands in these golden years”.
VI seniors, he said, paved the way and paid the sacrifice for “us to be here” and so it is “our duty” through the Health Ministry and the Premier, who holds the office of Minister of Finance, to “ensure that the things that you need to live out the rest of your years are put in place, so I will advocate on your behalf”.
We stand on your shoulders- Hon Turnbull
Hon Penn sent out advanced Mother’s Day greetings to the senior mothers and mother-figures, many of whom he said adopted him with warmth and wisdom. “Thank you for your love.”
He also saluted the fathers and men of honour.
“I salute you with reverence because your footsteps have cleared the path for persons like myself to follow and I hope that as we walk this journey as citizens of this Territory, that we always remember that you laid this foundation, not only do we stand on your shoulders but we move forward with the faith and the foundation that we believe in God, depend on one another and we could make this BVI the greatest it has ever been.”
Mrs Edith Penn recognised
Meanwhile, Former Chief Social Development Officer Mrs Edith Penn was recognised during the service.
She was described as a woman who served with distinction in shaping the development of the Social Development Department and advancing social work in the territory.


10 Responses to “I have a 'sacred duty' to advocate for seniors- Hon Turnbull”
Congrats to her!
Where is the Spooners Estate Old Peoples Home?
I know Kye Rhymer is not doing well at 10 years to repair a building.
But, the land was cleared over 12 years ago for the Spooners Estate.
Is the home nearly finished?
Waiting for your sacred update.