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by pltm
(PLTM) - Premier and Finance Minister, Hon. Dr. D. Orlando Smith said he asked Bishop John Cline to tender his resignation as Chairman of the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) because his comments about the finances of the Territory and him as Finance Minister were inappropriate. Premier Smith told BVI Platinum News today, January 10, that Cline worked for the government and should display some level of confidentiality, noting that he expects everybody, including his Ministers, to support him as the chief. "I did ask him to resign. I thought his comments were inappropriate considering that he is working with the government and the Chairman of the Board...Confidence, people who are working (with government)," he said. The Premier added, "I support all my Ministers in the work they do and we work very well together, and with their portfolios. At this moment, I am the chief, the Premier, the Minister of Finance and I expect everybody to support me as I support them." Bishop Cline made public comments to support the suggestion that Health Minister, Hon Ronnie Skelton be given the Ministry of Finance to help get the Territory back on track financially. He also criticized the decision to go ahead with the T.B. Lettsome International Airport project at this time, given the shaky financial standing of the Territory. Cline has since told BVI Platinum News that he will continue to speak out on matters affecting the Territory and urged persons to not let this incident deter them from speaking out.
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