Seventy-nine individuals were officially welcomed as new British Overseas Territories Citizens (BOTC) during a ceremony at Government House on August 29.
The event, presided over by His Excellency Governor Daniel Pruce, marked a significant milestone for the new citizens, who took an Oath of Allegiance to His Majesty the King and pledged loyalty to the Virgin Islands.
Governor Pruce presented the certificates of naturalisation and congratulated the new citizens, expressing his pleasure at being part of this important moment.
“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,” the governor stated, emphasizing the mutual benefits for both the individuals and the Virgin Islands.
Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley, also addressed the new citizens, reminding them that the occasion goes beyond the formalities of receiving documentation.
“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,” he said.
Registrar General, Mrs. Tashi O’Flaherty-Maduro, added that citizenship represents more than just a legal status; it is a bond of loyalty and mutual respect.
“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,” she noted, encouraging the new citizens to contribute to the well-being of the community.
The new citizens come from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the Virgin Islands’ vibrant cultural mosaic. Naturalisation, under the British Nationality Act of 1981, allows individuals to become British Overseas Territories citizens, granting them rights and responsibilities as members of the BOTC community.
This year’s group of new citizens includes educators, healthcare workers, and professionals from various sectors.