VI crime rates can't be link to unemployment- Premier Wheatley
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The premier was a guest on Mr. Skelton-Cline's radio show, ‘Honestly Speaking,’ on ZBVI 780 AM on Tuesday, August 19th, 2025.
Recently, there has been an uptick in crime in the Virgin Islands; however, the territory is still generally considered to have lower crime levels.
Jobs are available- Premier Wheatley
The Premier stated that the Virgin Islands government has issued hundreds of work permits every year.
He emphasised, "The problem is not that we don’t have individuals here to work; we face challenges regarding ensuring that unemployed individuals can secure jobs. It is not due to a lack of job availability; jobs are available. However, we experience a skills gap in some instances, along with other societal issues."
Hon. Wheatley noted that even when jobs are available, some individuals opt for "fast and easy money," seeking lifestyles characterised by expensive jewellery and cars rather than engaging in hard work.
"All of these factors require examination," he explained.
The Premier added that taking control of our society involves the values and morals of Virgin Islanders and how they raise their children, suggesting that these elements significantly contribute to criminal behaviour.
He identified vulnerable groups in society as being the most involved in criminal activities, citing real-life examples from his community.
"Some of these individuals are not receiving the assistance they need, and I see children from these households drifting away, only for them to end up on street corners where we know what can happen," the premier told Mr. Skelton-Cline.
Hon. Wheatley further stated, "If we want to confront crime, we cannot solely blame the lack of construction. A high percentage of the population is employed here.”
Government is assisting the unemployed
He alluded to a government program that offers unemployed individuals the opportunity to participate in landscaping work.
"We plan to expand this program to help people learn additional skills. We have had some individuals intern with the government, but we struggle to find unemployed individuals interested in participating in the program."
Hon. Wheatley concluded by saying, "We are addressing the challenge of unemployment. Construction is about to ramp up, supported by a $100 million loan. However, I remain cautious about solely attributing crime to lack of employment. Above all, I believe crime is a mindset!"
The government of the Virgin Islands has launched and implemented several measures to curb the crime rate, one of which is the upcoming Anti-Crime Summit, scheduled for next month.
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12 Responses to “VI crime rates can't be link to unemployment- Premier Wheatley”
We sick and tired of your political word salad and gift of gab.