The Department of Immigration will hold office hours on Anegada on 21st February 2025 and on Jost Van Dyke on 28th February 2025. These sessions will address Residence and Belonger Status interviews, permit extensions, and other queries. Appointments can be made by emailing the department by 19th February for Anegada and by 26th February for Jost Van Dyke.
The Virgin Islands observed No Tobacco Day on May 31, reminding residents of the dangers of all tobacco products, including vapes, cigarettes, and hookahs. Public Health Officer Renee Leonard urged smokers to quit and non-smokers to avoid starting, highlighting tobacco’s health risks. Recent updates to the Tobacco Products Control Act 2006 include stricter rules on smoking near minors, public buildings, and in hotel rooms, along with penalties for selling tobacco to under-18s. The Act now covers electronic cigarettes. This year’s theme is “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products.”
On 26th February, the Environmental Health Division, at the request of the Ministry of Communications and Works, assessed the visible white plume from the Norwegian Epic. Measurements for carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide were taken to ensure air quality was not compromised. All readings were within normal ranges, ensuring safety. The plume was identified as water vapor from the ship's Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (EGCS), which reduces sulfur oxide emissions to meet international standards. The ship's Environmental Officer cooperated fully, providing necessary documentation. It was recommended that the ship switch to low-sulfur fuel while at berth, and the officer agreed to consider this on future visits. The Ministry continues its commitment to maintaining reliable infrastructure and a healthy environment.
Thank you for the opportunity to share this update on my bilateral meeting with United Kingdom Overseas Territories Minister Hon. Stephen Doughty that took place last week in London, as well as other meetings in the UK Parliament.
Please see issue No. 29 dated Thursday, 26th March, 2026 attached to this Bulletin for public review
The Paraquita Bay Road, from H. Lavity Stoutt Community College to Hodges Creek, is closed to vehicular traffic until Wednesday, February 26th for concrete works. Motorists are advised to plan alternate routes.
The Virgin Islands is advancing a strategic approach to cruise tourism as a delegation attends Seatrade Cruise Global 2026, taking place from April 13 to 16 at the Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami, Florida. This engagement comes amid a surge in cruise activity, with visitor arrivals increasing by 20 percent in the first two months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. As momentum continues, the Territory is placing greater emphasis on balancing growth with value and at this year’s conference, Minister Rymer and his delegation is expected to leverage various selling points.
The Cabinet Office is notifying the public that Statutory Instrument No. 26 of 2026 – The Immigration and Passport Visa Exemption Order 2026, and the Consumer Protection (Amendment) Bill 2026 have both been published for public review.
Today marks a historic occasion for the House of Assembly of the Virgin Islands as we welcome Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the 158th Speaker of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom, to address this Honourable House.
The public is advised of scheduled water disruptions on June 25: from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Belle Vue to Meyers Estate area, and from 9:00 a.m. on June 25 until 6:00 a.m. on June 26 in the Sea Cows Bay to Pockwood Pond area. We deeply regret any inconvenience caused.