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Significant Changes to Virgin Islands Road Traffic Laws in effect with Road Traffic Amendment Act 2025
The Ministry of Communications and Works has announced the successful passing of the Road Traffic (Amendment) Act, 2025. The act was assented by the Governor on Thursday, 2 October 2025 and gazetted on Monday, 6 October, 2025. The amended act introduces substantial changes aimed at enhancing road safety, regulating the efficient movement of traffic, and adjusting penalties as a deterrent to the increase traffic violations across the Territory. It also aims at reducing the number of accidents, traffic offences commensurate with the Territory's development while increasing the accountability of road users on the public roads.
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Contracts Signed for Design Services for Estate House #2 And National Cultural Arena
The Government of the Virgin Islands has taken a significant step towards strengthening the Territory’s cultural identity and modernising public infrastructure with the signing of contracts for the architectural and engineering design of the National Cultural Arena, and design services for Estate House #2 (Oleander House) formerly, the Chief Minister’s residence.
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Contracts Signed For Design Services For Fisheries Landing Site And Road Town Master Plan
The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), in partnership with the Government of the Virgin Islands, has officially signed two contracts for design consultancy services that will transform the Virgin Islands landscape and advance the Territory’s sustainable development agenda.
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Statement by Premier, Honourable Dr. Natalio D Wheatley, on the Completion and Submission of the Government of the Virgin Islands Self-Assessment Report on the Implementation of the Recommendations of the 2022 British Virgin Islands Commission of Inquiry
Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley announced the completion and submission of the Government of the Virgin Islands’ Self-Assessment Report on the implementation of the 2022 Commission of Inquiry (COI) recommendations. This report, along with the Governor’s final review and public submissions, will help the UK determine whether to lift the Order in Council which allows for potential direct rule. The Premier confirmed that 46 of 48 recommendations have been completed, with the remaining two requiring external constitutional or judicial action. He also introduced the Governance Reform Transition Plan to guide continued implementation and public education. Dr. Wheatley expressed gratitude to all involved and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to stronger self-governance and ongoing reform.
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Statement on Tourism and Prospect Reef Development by Premier Wheatley
Madam Speaker, I am pleased to report that the Virgin Islands’ tourism sector continues to demonstrate sustained recovery, renewed growth, and continued confidence in our destination. An analysis of tourism arrivals for 2025, when compared with both 2024 and the pre-hurricane disruption benchmark year of 2016, confirms that we have returned to pre-hurricane levels but now face a shift in the growth structure of the industry.
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Speech by His Excellency the Governor Daniel Pruce
His Excellency the Governor, Daniel Pruce, spoke at a Rotary Club of Tortola meeting on security in the Virgin Islands. He emphasized that security is a shared responsibility and that community involvement, like the work of Rotary and other volunteer organizations, is crucial in preventing crime and creating positive pathways for youth. He also discussed the role of the National Security Council (NSC) in addressing security challenges and improving collaboration across various agencies. The Governor highlighted the importance of supporting law enforcement, including the relaunch of Crimestoppers, and efforts to enhance the criminal justice system, including improving prison conditions and rehabilitation. He stressed that security is fundamental to the Virgin Islands' prosperity and that collective action is necessary to tackle the complex security issues the territory faces. The Governor expressed optimism about making progress on security challenges by the end of the year.
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Invitation for Expressions of Interest: Legal Services Panel for the Government of the Virgin Islands
The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Attorney General’s Chambers, is inviting qualified legal practitioners and consultants to submit Expressions of Interest for inclusion on a Panel of Legal Practitioners & Consultants. The Panel will provide a range of legal services including drafting, civil litigation, advisory, and specialist consultancy across various practice areas such as constitutional law, commercial law, legislative drafting, and more. Eligible applicants must be admitted or eligible to practice law in the Virgin Islands and demonstrate expertise in relevant fields. Selected panel members will be engaged on a case-by-case basis under framework agreements, with assignments based on need and performance. Submissions are due by July 14, 2025, and must include detailed documentation to support qualifications and experience.
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Keynote Address by the Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley At the Caribbean Postal Union and Universal Postal Union Workshop 2025
Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley delivered a keynote address at the Caribbean Postal Union and Universal Postal Union Workshop 2025, emphasizing the vital role of postal services in the Caribbean and the challenges posed by digital advancements and the e-commerce boom. He highlighted the history of the BVI's postal services and the importance of adapting to new technologies like AI and blockchain to stay relevant. Dr. Wheatley stressed the need for collaboration across Caribbean nations, innovation in postal services, and investment in workforce development to meet the growing demands of the digital economy. He concluded with optimism about the future of postal services in the region.
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Remarks by Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley Update on Current Matters
Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley provided updates on various topics in his January 2025 press conference. He honored the late Lucia Harrigan and Celcila Georges, congratulated HLSCC on its 35th anniversary, and discussed tourism growth and the launch of a National Tourism Plan. He highlighted financial services initiatives, including a consultation on beneficial ownership and upcoming trade visits to Asia. The Premier also announced his appointment as President of UKOTA and provided updates on the implementation of COI recommendations and crime prevention efforts.