The Virgin Islands is celebrating Senior Citizens’ Month throughout May with a series of events honouring the invaluable contributions of older adults to the community. Under the theme “Flip the Script on Aging,” the observance encourages a fresh perspective on aging as a time of empowerment and continued purpose. At the May 2 launch, Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley and Premier Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley praised seniors as the foundation of the Territory, calling for year-round recognition and support. The Social Development Department also paid tribute to Mrs. Edith Penn for her decades of service. Events this month include cultural showcases, recreational gatherings, and community socials across the islands.
Governor of the Virgin Islands, Mr. Daniel Pruce, has announced two key developments aimed at strengthening the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF). First, the long-anticipated vetting of all RVIPF officers—recommended by the 2022 Commission of Inquiry—will officially begin, following regulatory amendments and a signed agreement with the UK Home Office. The goal is to have a fully vetted police force by Autumn, enhancing trust and security across the Territory. Second, the recruitment process for a new Commissioner of Police has resumed, based on updated requirements outlined in a recent law enforcement review. The Governor aims to appoint a Commissioner with the expertise and leadership needed to drive transformational change in the RVIPF by Autumn. These measures mark a pivotal step in strengthening public confidence and community safety in the Virgin Islands.
Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio Wheatley launched the Road Town Partnership (RTP) on April 4, 2025, marking a new beginning for revitalizing the capital. The RTP is a public-private-community partnership aimed at transforming Road Town through collaboration, sustainable development, and urban improvement. The initiative brings together government, private sector, and community representatives under a formal structure to create and implement a comprehensive Road Town Development Plan. The Premier emphasized the need for focus, unity, and investment to build a capital city that reflects the pride and aspirations of the Virgin Islands.
The Government of the Virgin Islands invites tenders for the execution of road rehabilitation works at Lomer Bay, Tortola. The project comprise demolition, excavation, drainage works, culvert construction, road pavement construction, traffic management, and associated utility coordination.
Board of Governors, President Georges, faculty, staff and students, good afternoon. Standing here today as both Minister for Education and a proud alumna of H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, I am humbled.
Twenty-five Human Resources professionals in the Virgin Islands Public Service have begun a two-month SHRM Certification Programme through the Public Service Learning Institute. Launched on April 9, the programme aims to equip participants with international HR competencies and technical expertise. Upon completion, they will earn SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP designations. This initiative supports the Public Service’s vision to develop agile and responsive HR leaders.
The Government of the Virgin Islands is inviting tenders for the rental of a kiosk to provide food vendor services at the Elmore Stoutt High School, Road Town, Tortola.
His Majesty’s Customs and the Department of Immigration have launched a fully online card processing system to modernize the Embarkation/Disembarkation process in the Territory. Commissioner Mr. Clinton 'Greg' Romney explained that the system combines both agencies' processes, eliminating the need for travelers to fill out duplicate forms. The new online module, introduced by CARICOM IMPACS, allows for a more efficient, green, and cost-effective system, with travelers able to complete forms up to 72 hours before travel. The goal is to expedite processing, improve service at ports of entry, and enhance border protection and national security.
Honourable Kye M. Rymer will lead a Virgin Islands delegation to Seatrade Cruise Global 2025 in Miami to promote the Territory as a top cruise destination. The team will focus on building partnerships, sustainability, and enhancing visitor experiences.
The Attorney General’s Chambers has completed the first phase of the Law Revision and Accessibility of Laws Project, aimed at ensuring the laws of the Virgin Islands are current and easily accessible. This phase involved the revision of approximately 90 Acts and their subsidiary legislation, resulting in an Interim Revised Edition effective 1 January 2023, now available online. The second phase is underway, revising 101 Acts and introducing a new online platform. A third phase, set for 2025, will revise all remaining laws. The public is encouraged to visit laws.gov.vg to access the laws.