The Government of the Virgin Islands’ Cabinet has approved the appointment of two new members and the re-appointment of five past members to the BVI Social Security Board.

The new members are Dr. Irad Potter, Chief Medical Officer and Ms. Vareen Vanterpool; both representing Government. The re-appointed members are Mr. Anghel George, Deputy Chairman, representing employees; Mr. Michael Vanterpool, representing employees; Mrs. Annie Malone-Frett, representing Government; Mr. Simon Potter, representing employers; and ex-officio member, Mrs. Antoinette Skelton, Director of the Social Security Board.

The appointments are in accordance with the Social Security (Amendment) Act, 2014  Section1 (CAP 266) which states that the Social Security Board should consist of seven persons to be appointed by the Minister responsible for Social Security, that being the Minister for Health and Social Development. The Act further specifies that the representative members may hold office for a period not exceeding three years and can be eligible for reappointment.

Section 4 of the Schedule to the Social Security Ordinance (CAP 266) also states, “[The] Minister shall with the concurrence of the Leader of the Opposition designate two representative members of the Board to be Chairman and Deputy Chairman.”

The appointments took effect on September 1, 2016. Other members of the Board include Mr. Ian Smith, Chairman, representing employers; and Dr. Dawn Brewley, representing private health practitioners.

The Social Security Board’s vision is to provide appropriate Social Security benefits to contributors and their families, through strong leadership, prudent investments and the sustained efforts of a highly motivated committed and professional staff.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development endeavours to provide leadership that promotes health, social well-being and a safe environment.