My fellow Virgin Islanders, June 1st marks the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, a time when we must all renew our commitment to preparedness, vigilance, and collective responsibility. Forecasts indicate that this may be an active season, with the potential for several named storms and hurricanes. While we cannot predict the exact path or impact of any system, we do know that early preparation is our strongest defense against the effects of severe weather. The Ministry of Communications and Works, in collaboration with the Public Works Department and other key agencies, has been taking proactive steps to safeguard our communities. Our teams will ensure that drains and ghuts are cleared, manage vegetation, inspect roads and infrastructure, and strengthen critical communication systems to ensure that accurate and timely information reaches the public. We are also working closely with the Department of Disaster Management (DDM), the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC), and local telecom providers to enhance the resilience of our cellular broadcasting network. This collaboration is aimed at ensuring that emergency alerts and critical information can be delivered effectively during adverse weather conditions and other disaster events.
Good morning, fellow Virgin Islanders and residents. Recent global events, especially the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its effects on vital shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz—have caused major disruptions to worldwide energy markets and trade. As a result, the Virgin Islands are now facing higher fuel prices, increased freight costs, and rising expenses for essential goods.
On June 12, 2025, the Government of the Virgin Islands signed a US$370,000 contract with Trojan Design and Development Ltd for the design and construction management of a new 12,000 sq. ft. Immigration Detention Centre. Funded through a $100 million loan facility with CIBC and led by the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) in partnership with the Ministry of Financial Services, the project aims to strengthen national security while upholding human rights standards. The modern facility will provide secure, humane accommodations for detainees and include medical, recreational, and operational spaces. Officials highlighted the project's importance to immigration reform and national development, with construction seen as both urgent and transformative.
On February 1, 2025, the Government of the Virgin Islands announced that American Airlines successfully operated six flights to Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport. Minister Kye M. Rymer highlighted the significance of this development for improving connectivity and boosting tourism. The event also underscores the commitment to expanding airport infrastructure to meet growing demand, as emphasized by Permanent Secretary Elvia Smith-Maduro. BVI Airports Authority Managing Director Kurt Menal noted the positive impact on tourism and economic growth. The Ministry of Communications and Works remains focused on developing and maintaining public infrastructure.
The Government of the Virgin Islands invites tenders for road rehabilitation works at Prospect Reef, Tortola. The project includes demolition, excavation, site clearance, and the construction of concrete culverts, drainage, and pavement improvements. Tender documents are available upon request via email to procurement@gov.vg with the subject “Prospect Reef Road Rehabilitation.” A virtual pre-tender meeting will be held on Thursday, 4th December 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (local time). Tenders must be submitted by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 20th January 2026. Late submissions will not be considered. Tenders will be publicly opened at 11:00 a.m. on the same day via WebEx. For full details, contact the Procurement Unit at (284) 468-4245 or email procurement@gov.vg.
The BVI Postal Service has announced the temporary suspension of mail items containing goods bound for the United States and its territories (American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands) effective Friday, 29th August 2025, until further notice
The National Security Council (NSC) is inviting youth of all ages, youth groups and organisations, parents, guardians and the general public to the Virgin Islands Anti-Crime Summit 2025 Launch and Youth Rally on Friday, August 15.
Q3 2025 Debt Update At the end of the third quarter of 2025, the public sector debt of the Government of the Virgin Islands stood at $145.95 million, reflecting a steady decline compared to previous quarters and years. This reduction—driven by ongoing debt servicing—marks an 18.7% decrease since September 2023, with no new disbursements recorded during the quarter.
Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE, addressed the RISA BVI & South Square Conference highlighting the Virgin Islands’ ongoing efforts to address its placement on the FATF grey list by strengthening anti-money laundering measures and regulatory frameworks, with a goal to be removed within two years. She emphasized the importance of the financial services sector to the economy and the government’s support for diversification, particularly in fintech and emerging areas like climate finance. Smith reaffirmed the BVI’s commitment to good governance, innovation, and strong partnerships with the private sector and international regulators to ensure continued growth and resilience.
During the temporary road closure in Hodge's Creek, free transportation will be provided from June 11 to June 25 for residents in the East End and Paraquita Bay/Hodge's Creek areas. Pick-up and drop-off points are at Fine Foods Supermarket in Fat Hogs Bay and HLSCC in Paraquita Bay. Services will run three round trips daily, Monday to Friday, at 8:45 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 8:40 p.m., traveling via Ridge Road.