Mapp Appoints Farrell As Senior Policy Advisor To Governor

ST. THOMAS — Governor Kenneth Mapp, at a press conference held at Government House here to announce the nomination of Claude Walker (more on him in a separate story to be published later) as acting attorney general, surprised the territory by nominating Eugene Farrell, who was recently rejected by lawmakers for the position of director of the Virgin Islands Fire Service, as senior policy advisor to the governor.

Mapp said Farrell will advise him on law enforcement, justice, management and National Guard issues.

“As you may recall, former retired General Elton Lewis had held that position, and we’re offering that position to Mr. Farrell, and his work at Government House begins immediately,” Mapp said.

Farrell was rejected by the full Senate last Thursday, a decision based on calls, emails and text messages they received from a myriad of residents, including VIFS employees, about Farrell’s leadership style; stating that he was unpleasant to work with.

The governor moved swiftly following the rejection of Farrell to nominate Fire Marshal Clifford Joseph for the position of director of VIFS, who was received favorably by members of the community as confirmed by a widely-read story on The Consortium.

“I want to thank all fifteen Senators for their thorough evaluation and careful consideration of each and every nominee. It is now time to move forward; we have our Professionals in place to tackle the issues ahead of us,” Mapp said after nominating Joseph.

Joseph is a graduate of the VIPD Post Peace Officer/Law Enforcement Training Certification and certified in many areas including Hazmat 1st Responder Awareness; Conflict Resolution; National Wildfire Incident Command Fire Science; and a certified responder for weapons of mass destruction.

“It is with heartfelt thanks to the MAPP/POTTER Administration in their selection of confidence in me to lead the V.I. Fire Service. I am confidant through Christ who gives me the strength to lead the V.I. Fire Services,” Joseph said in a statement issued to The Consortium.