Territorial At-Large Representative Stacy Mather has crossed the political aisle to become a member of the Dr Natalio Wheatley-led government.
Premier Wheatley made the announcement during a live statement on Monday, December 22, highlighting the first-term legislator’s experience in youth and community development programmes, including the Youth Empowerment Programme (YEP), which he described as the most successful initiative of its kind in the territory’s history.
“Honourable Mather will assist me the RATED programme, initiatives in agriculture and fisheries and the development of community programmes that will empower community based organisations to execute initiatives for the upliftment of the citizens and residents of our community,” Premier Wheatley stated.
Mather, meanwhile, said his decision to cross over to the government was driven by a desire to put residents first and to assist the governing Virgin Islands Party (VIP) administration during what he described as a challenging period for the territory, particularly in areas such as employment and crime.
“An all-hands-on-deck approach is need if we are to effectively address these issues and make tangible gains in the near and medium term,” Mather stated.
“My people, crossing the floor is not a leap from you. It is a step towards you. It is a step to get more done for the people of the Virgin Islands. It is a step to accelerate progress… This is not a move to raise a moment of silence,” he added, while noting that he remains the same person but with greater access.
Mather is the third opposition member to cross the floor, following Deputy Premier Julian Fraser and Junior Minister Lorna Smith.
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