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Cabinet Approves 2026 Public Holidays
The Office of the Deputy Governor advises that Cabinet has approved the following public holidays for 2026, acting in accordance with Section 5 of the Public Holidays Act (Cap 199), as amended.
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Tourism Community Meetings To Be Held In VG On Monday
The Ministry for Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development will hold a National Tourism Policy Consultation Meeting on March 17, 2025, at the Virgin Gorda Catholic Community Centre. This meeting is part of a series aimed at gathering input from stakeholders to shape the National Tourism Policy. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley emphasized the importance of the consultations in balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. The meeting will address various tourism-related issues, and the public, including residents, tourism professionals, and environmental groups, are encouraged to attend and provide feedback.
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Wrap it Up Campaign Launches with Urgent Safety Messages
The Ministry of Health and Social Development in collaboration with Unite BVI, launched their Wrap it Up campaign with key messages for the public to promote sexual health this festival season.
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Statement By Premier And Minister Of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley On The Occasion Of The Press Briefing On Regional And International Affairs
A pleasant good morning to the Press Corps and the people of the Virgin Islands. I would like to acknowledge my Honourable Colleagues and Senior Officials present. I am pleased to provide an update on my recent overseas engagements to advance the interests of the Virgin Islands, as my Government continues to bolster our economy, drive sustainable development and pursue constitutional advancement.
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Ponce Health Sciences University To Inaugurate Medical Cohort In July
Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU) will open its School of Medicine in July with 50 students, offering a four-year Doctor of Medicine Degree. The program, located at HLSCC and the B&F Medical Building, aims to boost Edu-tourism and contribute to the Virgin Islands' economy. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley and Minister Sharie de Castro highlighted the importance of the school in strengthening the medical workforce and providing scholarships for local students. The program includes two years of science courses in the VI, followed by clinical rotations in Puerto Rico or the US.
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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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2026 System Test Calendar Available
Virgin Islands residents can download the schedule of 2026 tests of the National Early Warning Multi-hazard Alert System. Sirens and other elements of the early warning system are generally tested on the fourth Friday each month.
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BVI And U.S.V.I Strengthen Maritime Collaboration Through Continued Dialogue On Charter Vessel Fees
On April 15, 2025, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) held a successful diplomatic meeting in St. Thomas to strengthen maritime collaboration. Leaders from both territories agreed on a revised charter vessel fee structure and committed to forming a joint marine task force to improve regional policy, port efficiency, and coastal protection. The BVI is advancing legislation to modernize its maritime sector through amendments to the Commercial Recreational Vessel Licensing Act. The updated charter fees reflect regional cooperation and industry feedback, supporting a sustainable and prosperous charter tourism industry.
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Statement From Governor Of The Virgin Islands Daniel Pruce On The Implementation Of The Commission Of Inquiry's Recommendations And The Security Of The Territory
In his final review, the Governor of the Virgin Islands reported substantial progress in implementing the 2022 Commission of Inquiry (COI) recommendations, with most completed and two delayed due to external factors. Eighteen related laws have been passed, but further work is needed to bring them into effect through policies and training. A new Governance Reform Implementation Action Plan has been approved, and vetting for law enforcement officers has begun. Public feedback showed broad support and growing trust in reforms. The recent Law Enforcement Review offers a roadmap for improved safety and oversight. The Governor emphasized continued collaboration, transparency, and public trust as essential to successful reform and national development.
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BVI launches Consultation on the Rights of Access to Beneficial Ownership Register
The Government of the Virgin Islands has launched a public consultation on its proposed policy regarding access to the register of beneficial ownership. This initiative aims to enhance financial transparency while balancing privacy and combating illicit finance. Legislative changes, effective from January 2, 2025, have strengthened the BVI’s framework for collecting beneficial ownership information, now hosted on the VIRRGIN system. The consultation seeks input on what information should be accessible, who qualifies for access, and potential exemptions. Submissions can be made by February 28, 2025.