BVIHSA Chairman denies smirking accusations

BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) Chairman Ron Potter has refuted accusations that he was smirking during a recent community meeting in Virgin Gorda.

Virgin Gorda resident Laura Fox publicly rebuked Potter during the meeting, arguing that Potter’s apparent smirk showed a lack of concern for residents during a discussion about healthcare in Virgin Gorda.

“My first matter of business is Mr Potter, I need you to take that smile and smirk off your face, please, with all due respect,” Fox said to loud applause from the audience at the time. She continued: “There is nothing more disrespectful than discussing something of such drastic and urgent nature and to have the chairman really and truly look the way that you are exuding your body posture and your mannerisms, [which] means you are not actually here to listen to us.”

Potter did not respond during the meeting but broke his silence during the Talking Points radio days later, yesterday September 9. “That is my natural disposition,” Potter clarified while addressing the matter on the radio show. He explained that those familiar with him know that his typical expression could be misunderstood. “Elvin (radio host), you’ve known me for over 40 years. That’s how I usually look,” he said, noting that those who do not know him might assume otherwise. However, Potter was quick to debunk the accusation, stating that he had no ill intent. He emphasised his dedication to hearing and addressing the community’s concerns.