Twenty-six new British Overseas Territories Citizens (BOTC) received Certificates of Naturalisation during a ceremony today.

The citizens recited the Oath of Allegiance and the Pledge of Loyalty at the ceremony officiated by Registrar General Mrs. Stephanie Benn at Government House.

His Excellency the Governor Augustus J. U. Jaspert welcomed the “newest British Overseas Territories citizens,” and reminded them that this new status entitles them to carry a Virgin Islands Passport and to apply for British Passports.

 Governor Jaspert also encouraged the new BOTCs to do what they can to make the Virgin Islands a better place to live.

“We know that regardless of race or religion or country of origin, you are part of what makes the Territory strong. You take on today the responsibility to be ambassadors of this Territory.”

Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Andrew A. Fahie applauded the newly naturalised citizens, and urged them to continue to be examples in their communities.

“We know that you have made here your home, and that you are part of what has helped us develop to the point we are now,” Honourable Fahie stated, adding, “I trust that you would all continue to be a beacon, showing what it means to be naturalised here and demonstrating that the system works.”

Honourable Fahie also added gratitude to the Governor’s Office, the Deputy Governor’s Office, and the Civil Registry and Passport Office for facilitating so many applications for naturalisation. To allow for safe physical distancing, the day’s ceremony was the first of three planned for the coming weeks.

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NOTE TO EDITORS: Photo included

Photo caption: The 26 newly naturalised British Overseas Territories Citizens posed for a photo with His Excellency the Governor Augustus J. U. Jaspert, Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Andrew A. Fahie, Deputy Governor Mr. David D. Archer Jr, Registrar General Mrs. Stephanie Benn and Reverend David Stedman.