In a press release, Hon. Penn explained, “The BVI Health Services Authority has been a statutory body since 2005, and remains responsible for handling their own administrative affairs. Therefore, the Ministry of Health and Social Development is not responsible for paying employees who fall under the Health Authority.”

She expressed her deep regret if any negative effects were felt by persons who experienced the occurrence.

Furthermore, the Authority Financial Comptroller Ursula Wilson further stated that, “An administrative glitch was the reason for funds being sent to the banks late. Some employees were paid starting the same Friday afternoon of October 14.”

The release added that civil servants within the Government of the Virgin Islands, and those of other statutory bodies, had no issues with being paid on time. Agencies under the BVI Health Services Authority include Hospital Services and Community Clinics.