Article
Two Bids Received For West End Ferry Terminal Project
Two bids were received by the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) for the West End Ferry Terminal Project by the extended deadline of January 17, 2025. One bid was from a joint venture of two local firms, and the other from a Canadian firm. The technical submissions will be evaluated by the project’s design consultant, Inros Lackner SE, with results expected by February 2025. The project is funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and aims to improve infrastructure and enhance connectivity. The West End Ferry Terminal is crucial for sea travel to and from Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, and the USVI.
Article
284 Excellence Film Festival
The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission has announced the inaugural 284 Excellence Film Festival (284XFF), set for October 30 to November 2, 2025, aiming to bridge Caribbean literature and cinema. With the theme “Caribbean Literature in Motion: Caribbean Stories Reimagined,” the festival will showcase global films while spotlighting Caribbean narratives adapted for the screen. Featuring national, regional, and international competitions, as well as student and youth challenges, the event fosters creative collaboration and cultural exchange. Supported by major international film festivals and hosted in the BVI, 284XFF positions the Territory as a cinematic hub while empowering local and regional talent.
Article
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.
Article
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.
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 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.
Article
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.
Article
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.
Article
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.
Article
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.