Article
Remarks by Premier Wheatley - Sunrise Airways Inaugural Flight
Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. It is a pleasure and an honour to welcome all of you to the Virgin Islands on this historic occasion. Today, we celebrate the inaugural Sunrise Airways flight to the BVI, marking the beginning of Sunrise’s direct air service between the Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic (DR). To the passengers who have just arrived - bienvenidos, welcome to your home away from home. And to the executive team of Sunrise Airways who are with us today, we extend a very warm Virgin Islands welcome.
Article
Limited-Time Access for Commercial Vessels in the Territory
Effective 1st June 2025, new maritime regulations in the Virgin Islands take effect. Amendments to the Cruising and Home Port Permit Act and the Commercial Recreational Vessels Licensing Act introduce stricter rules for intra-trading between local ports. Only licensed BVI vessels may operate freely, while non-BVI vessels require limited-time waivers, inspection certification, and fees. Certain exemptions apply, including small cruise ships and locally licensed recreational vessels.
Article
Contract Signed for Design and Installation Services for Hospital Generator Connectivity
The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), working in support of the Government of the Virgin Islands, today, 12 January, signed a contract with Barry’s Electrical Services Ltd. for Design and Installation Services for Generator Connectivity at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital.
Article
The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund Launched with Global Audience at GSIS 2026
The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund Launched with Global Audience at GSIS 2026 The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund was officially launched on April 21st in Gran Canaria, Spain, at the Global Sustainable Islands Summit hosted by Island Innovation.
Article
Statement By Honourable Vincent Wheatley Minister For Health And Social Development on International Women’s Day 2025
On International Women's Day, the Virgin Islands celebrates the achievements and contributions of women, acknowledging progress made towards gender equality. The theme "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment." calls for inclusive action to advance women's rights. Over the past years, significant strides have been made in legal protections and women’s participation in leadership roles. The Virgin Islands has seen an increase in women in key positions in the government and private sector. However, there is a continued need to encourage more women in politics and decision-making. The government emphasizes the importance of ensuring women’s fundamental rights, such as safety, education, and economic opportunities. Empowering women leads to stronger communities and the progress of society. The day serves as both a celebration and a call to action for continued support and advocacy for women and girls.
Article
Statement By Governor Of The British Virgin Islands Daniel Pruce On The Vetting Of Police Officers
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.
Article
Highest numbers since 2016 With Over One Million Visitors In 2024 January 14, 2025
Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley announced that the Virgin Islands achieved a milestone in 2024 by welcoming over one million visitors, marking the second time this has been accomplished since 2016. Total tourist arrivals reached 1,092,139, a 9.8% increase from 2023. This growth was seen across all visitor categories: cruise ship visitors up 6.8%, overnight visitors up 16.7%, and day trippers up 35.1%. The Premier highlighted the resilience of the tourism sector and emphasized the government's commitment to sustainable tourism practices and infrastructure development. The Tourism Summit will further discuss the sector’s future.
Article
Statement by Acting Superintendent of His Majesty’s Prison Regarding Inmate Incident
The Management and Staff at His Majesty’s Prison are aware of videos circulating on social media depicting an incident involving a prisoner at His Majesty’s Prison at Balsam Ghut. The incident has now been safely resolved by Prison staff acting accordance with established operational procedures and contingency arrangements. The matter involved one prisoner, remained fully contained within the institution at all times and posed no wider threat to public safety.
Article
Request For Proposal For Fencing Sea Cows Bay
The Department of Waste Management is requesting quotations for security fencing at the Old Derelict Vehicle Storage Site, Sea Cows Bay, Tortola. The fencing will include 220 feet of chain link wire, galvanized metal posts, a height of six feet, and a 16-foot wide double gate. Interested companies must submit their bids with required documents, including a quotation, certificate of good standing, valid trade license, proof of equipment ownership, and company experience with referrals. Bids will be evaluated on price, access to equipment, and experience. A site visit is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on March 4, 2025. The deadline for submission is 4:00 p.m. on March 14, 2025. All quotations must be hand-delivered to the Department of Waste Management Office. For queries, contact the Director at 284-468-4934.
Article
British Virgin Islands Government Welcomes Independent Affirmation of Sovereign Credit Ratings and Stable Economic Outlook
The Ministry of Finance is pleased to announce that S&P Global Ratings (S&P) has affirmed the British Virgin Islands' 'BBB' long-term and 'A-2' short-term sovereign credit ratings. This affirmation, accompanied by a stable outlook, serves as a powerful endorsement of our territory’s resilient institutional framework and our unwavering commitment to prudent fiscal management.