I have ‘no apologies or regrets’ for aligning with VIP- Hon Lorna G. Smith OBE
“You were pushing an agenda two weeks ago on the way how you see things but you are now faced with a different agenda. How difficult it is for you to adjust to meet this new agenda and not able to satisfy the needs or what you told the people?” Mr Lewis asked Hon Smith on May 16, 2023, during a press conference alongside Premier Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) to update the public on their recent trip to the United Kingdom (UK).
‘I was pushing an agenda for greater efficiency’- Hon Smith
“I was not pushing a different agenda. I was pushing an agenda for greater efficiency,” Hon Smith replied, explaining that one of the things she would work towards, in line with her campaign promise, is cutting red tape, as she highlighted the long delays in processing work permits and trade licenses.
“And that is what I plan to do, so it’s the same agenda. And I am so happy that I have the opportunity as Deputy Premier to make sure that I can follow through on this promise. So, it is not a different agenda at all. It’s to make sure what I promised, I can deliver,” Hon Smith responded.
The Deputy Premier further explained that she is meeting a situation where there is need for improvement, “and everybody recognises that there is need for improvement in the services that we deliver.”
No regrets, no apologies
Mr Lewis then asked Hon Smith if she had any regrets or apologies for aligning with the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) to form the government, while a member of the National Democratic Party (NDP).
Hon Smith’s move caused the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM), NDP and Progressives United (PU) to remain in the Opposition and came as the three parties were reportedly having a power struggle.
“So, would it be correct to say, Mrs Smith, you have no regrets from the decision you made?” Mr Lewis asked.
“None, none,” Hon Smith promptly replied.
“No apologies to anyone?” Mr Lewis asked.
“No apology,” Hon Smith responded.
‘Exciting time’ in VI- Hon Smith
Meanwhile, Hon Smith said it is indeed an exciting time in the Virgin Islands, including with the start of direct flights by American Airlines next month.
She also said the students in the UK were “very enthusiastic about the new administration and, in fact, asked a number of questions, "and we had a very lively discussion with them. I found that to be truly inspiring,” Hon Smith said.
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45 Responses to “I have ‘no apologies or regrets’ for aligning with VIP- Hon Lorna G. Smith OBE”
Zan in her waist
Be reminded that the representatives have not been sworn into their official roles until the first seating of HOA.
I couldn’t agree with you more on the mere allowance that some Senior Citizens receive monthly. But, this is just not for Lorna in the corner to address; this is an issue for ALL of the elected representatives to fix. In addition to this they also need to review the Social Security stipends and the Government pension for the retirees as well. After all, the cost of living in this place is extremely high and the prices at the supermarkets go higher and higher every week. We are depending on Lorna, the Premier and all of them to initiate the increase in these allowances to help the seniors- “our golden gems”. Show us that you care.