Article
Statement By Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley Minister For Health And Social Development For Child Abuse Prevention And Awareness Month And Autism Awareness Month
Hon. Vincent O. Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development, delivered a statement marking Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month and Autism Awareness Month in April 2025. Under the themes "Collective Action to Strengthen Prevention" and "Celebrate Differences," he emphasized the community’s shared responsibility to protect children from abuse and to support individuals with autism. He highlighted efforts such as the advancement of the Sexual Offences Bill, which aims to strengthen legal protections for survivors and create a Sexual Offenders Registry. The public is encouraged to wear blue on April 25 in support of child protection. Minister Wheatley also called for an inclusive society that values the unique contributions of individuals on the autism spectrum, supported through initiatives by the Social Development Department’s Disabilities Unit. The message: together, we can build a safer, more compassionate Virgin Islands for all.
Article
Statement By Attorney General Honourable Dawn J. Smith Improving Access To Laws Of The Virgin Islands
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.
Article
Honourable Rymer Updates VI Post Hurricane Erin
Minister for Communication and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer has addressed the challenges and accomplishments with regard to the Territory’s utilities following the passage of Hurricane Erin last weekend.
Article
Cabinet Declares Water Infrastructure a National Critical Priority
Minister for Communications and Works, Hon. Kye Rymer, announced that the Virgin Islands Cabinet has declared water infrastructure a National Critical Priority due to long-standing shortages affecting multiple communities. He acknowledged the decades-old issue of water loss from aging pipes and leaks and apologized for the hardships faced by residents. The government has committed to six key action areas—funding, coordination, reliability, quality, community engagement, and accountability—through the Water Optimisation Strategic Plan. Volunteer engineers from Operators Without Borders are on the ground assisting with assessments and repairs, while local talent is being empowered to support long-term solutions.
Article
Waste Management Inviting Tenders for Heavy Equipment Rentals
The Government of the Virgin Islands is inviting tenders for the rental and operation of heavy equipment at the Pockwood Pond and Virgin Gorda dumpsites. Contractors must provide equipment listed in the Schedule of Requirements, operated for a minimum of 8 hours daily, with immediate replacement in case of breakdowns. Tenderers must submit proof of equipment ownership and trained personnel based in the BVI, details of relevant experience, valid certificates of good standing, and a 2025 trade license if applicable. All tender prices must be in US dollars. Two copies of proposals must be submitted in a sealed envelope labeled “Heavy Equipment at the Pockwood Pond Dumpsite” by 4:00 p.m. on June 30, 2025, to the Department of Waste Management, Union Property Building.
Article
Community Centres Across the Territory Available for Public Use
Several community centres in the Virgin Islands, including Long Trench, Emile Dunlop (Anegada), and Christiana Gertrude Warner (Purcell Estate), are now open for approved public use such as meetings, weddings, and workshops. The Ministry of Health and Social Development is finalising arrangements for the full reopening of additional centres, with some facilities like West End and Valerie O. Thomas centres offering limited access. All bookings must be made through the Social Development Department and follow specific guidelines. The ministry thanks the public for their cooperation as it continues to enhance community support and well-being.
Article
House of Assembly Honours the Life and Legacy of Mrs. Eileene L. Parsons, OBE
The House of Assembly of the Virgin Islands mourns the loss of Mrs. Eileene Lucia Parsons, OBE, a pioneering leader and devoted public servant. Mrs. Parsons broke barriers as the first woman Minister in the Virgin Islands, serving with distinction as Minister for Health, Education and Welfare, Deputy Premier, and Deputy Speaker. Throughout her life, she remained deeply engaged in public service, including advising on the 75th Anniversary of the Restoration of Parliament. Her profound contributions to the social, cultural, and political fabric of the Territory leave an enduring legacy of integrity, professionalism, and dedication. The House of Assembly extends heartfelt condolences to her family and all who knew her, celebrating a remarkable life that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Article
Demolition Works To Commence At Estate House No. 2
The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), in support of the Office of the Deputy Governor, has executed a contract for demolition services at Estate House No. 2, formerly the Chief Minister’s residence, marking a key milestone in the ongoing revitalisation of the Government’s public estate.
Article
Statement By Honourable Vincent Wheatley On World Obesity Day 2025
Honourable Sharie B. De Castro, Minister for Education, Youth Affairs & Sports, launched Education Month 2025 on March 4, with the theme "Innovate, Inspire, Transform: A Reimagined Education for All." The focus is on strengthening education through infrastructure, professional development, and resources. The Minister emphasized the importance of reimagining education to integrate new technologies and diversify the curriculum. Key initiatives include investment in STEAM education, honoring the legacy of Honourable Hamilton Lavity Stoutt, and improving education infrastructure with significant financial investments. Activities for the month include a range of events aimed at engaging and inspiring students, teachers, and the community. The Ministry is also investing in teacher development and partnering with the private sector to enhance learning opportunities. The goal is to create a modern, inclusive education system that prepares students for global challenges.
Article
Statement by Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer at the Ribbon Cutting and Official Commissioning of the Anegada Hybrid Renewable Energy and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Project
Good morning, colleagues, friends, and fellow citizens of our beautiful Virgin Islands. Today marks a landmark moment in our collective journey toward a greener, more resilient future with the inauguration of the Fanegada Hybrid Renewable Energy and Battery Energy Storage System. This facility powers the island with clean energy for more than 12 hours a day during peak usage—especially now in the height of the tourist season and following the internationally known Lobster Fest—and can run on renewables alone for up to 19 hours. It also symbolises our deep commitment to the principles enshrined in our National Sustainable Development Goals—particularly responsible consumption, climate action, and affordable, clean energy for all.