As the government works to establish a fund to mitigate the negative effects of climate change in the territory, leaders are seeking nominations for the board that will oversee the effort.
“This is an exciting and historic opportunity to serve the territory by helping to build something novel and great that will improve the lives of all residents today,” said Deputy Premier Dr. Kedrick Pickering, the minister of natural resources and labour.
The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund Act, which came into force on Jan. 1, mandates the creation of a board with nine people. Applications or nominations are now sought for six of those positions, according to government:
• a private sector representative of the tourism industry, financial services sector, and any other sector that may contribute to the fund;
• a representative from an academic or research organisation and a non-governmental organisation; and
• a resident possessing relevant expertise or experience.
To select the board, Dr. Pickering “will make recommendations to Cabinet based on an open and transparent, criteria-based public application and nomination process,” said Ronald Smith-Berkeley, the permanent secretary in the Natural Resources and Labour Ministry.
Belongers and non-belongers may apply or be nominated, though the board must include a majority of belongers.
The application/nomination process will remain open until April 15.
Applications must include a signed application or nomination form; three references; a curriculum vitae; a recent police report; proof of belonger status if applicable; and, if relevant, the nomination or a letter of support from a registered organisation in the sector to be represented.
For more information go to www.bvi.gov.vg/climatechange.
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