79 New British Overseas Citizens Welcomed at Government House in Tortola, BVI

A brief ceremony was held at Government House in Tortola, BVI, where 79 individuals were welcomed as newly Naturalised British Overseas Territories Citizens. The ceremony took place on August 29.

New Citizens Affirmed Allegiance and Pledged Loyalty

The new citizens affirmed an Oath of Allegiance to His Majesty the King and a pledge of loyalty to the Virgin Islands, which is a legal requirement, and officially confirmed their places as British Overseas Territories Citizens. Governor Daniel Pruce presented the certificates of Naturalisation and offered congratulatory remarks.

Speeches from Governor and Premier

Governor Daniel Pruce said, “I am delighted to welcome you all to Government House for this ceremony. Today is your day. It gives me great pleasure to be part of an event where you are all committing yourselves loyally to new ties, which will stay with you for the rest of your lives. This is a highly enriching process, from which you as individuals, and the BVI as a Territory, will gain.”

Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. Natalio Wheatley, reminded the new citizens that the occasion is more than the collection of documentation, adding that they are joining a family of persons that celebrate diversity and strive for greatness. Premier Wheatley said, “Among you, I see persons who attended and taught in schools here, teachers who even taught my two children. I see persons who work here, who look after us medically and spiritually. I see a broad cross-section of individuals who I am proud to welcome into the BVI family.”

Reflection on the Significance of Citizenship

Registrar General, Mrs. Tashi O’Flaherty-Maduro reminded the citizens that becoming a citizen is more than just a legal status and that it is a bond of loyalty and mutual respect. Mrs. Tashi O’Flaherty-Maduro said, “As you stand on the threshold of this new chapter in your lives, I want to take a moment to reflect on the profound significance of the journey you have undertaken to reach this day. It signifies your commitment to uphold the rights and responsibilities that come with citizenship, to contribute to the common good, and to work together for the prosperity and well-being of all.”

Concluding Remarks

Naturalisation is the process under the British Nationality Act, 1981 that allows individuals to become British Overseas Territories citizens.

Conclusion

The ceremony marked an important milestone for the 79 new citizens, as they officially became British Overseas Territories Citizens. This is a significant achievement for those who have made the Virgin Islands their home.

FAQs

Q: What is Naturalisation?
A: Naturalisation is the process under the British Nationality Act, 1981 that allows individuals to become British Overseas Territories citizens.

Q: What is the significance of becoming a citizen?
A: Becoming a citizen is more than just a legal status, it is a bond of loyalty and mutual respect. It signifies a commitment to uphold the rights and responsibilities that come with citizenship, to contribute to the common good, and to work together for the prosperity and well-being of all.

Q: What is the significance of the ceremony?
A: The ceremony is an important milestone for the 79 new citizens, as it officially confirms their places as British Overseas Territories Citizens.