The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force is informing both political parties and the general public that during the election period the respective political parties will not be required to seek noise permits or exemptions.
The RVIPF gave the confirmation in a media release on Friday, stating that provisions are made within the Noise Control & Abatement Act 1996 to host election campaign meetings without seeking a permit or exemption.
“The Noise Abatement Act allows for persons to campaign during an election without seeking a noise permit. Therefore, there is no need for anyone to write to the Commissioner seeking permission to host a meeting with amplified noise to campaign individually or on behalf of any identified political party for the upcoming general elections,” the RVIPF stated.
Meetings must conclude by 11pm
Commissioner of Police Mark Collins however noted that political meetings must abide by the stipulated time frames which are guided by the law.
“Political meetings must conclude on or before 11pm nightly except during the period between nomination day and polling day when amplified noise must cease on or before 12 midnight. Any loud noise made outside this timeframe would be considered an offense,” the release added.
Still illegal to host non-political events without permit or exemption
The police also informed the public that all events with any amplified noise made outside of purposes for political campaigning without permission from the Commissioner of Police will be considered an offense.