Athletes who represented the Virgin Islands in the 53rd CARIFTA Games in Grenada were welcomed home on Tuesday during a special ceremony at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The 4th Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference (COTSC) was held in London from May 13–16, 2025, hosted by UK House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle. Delegates included Speakers and Clerks from several UK Overseas Territories, including The Virgin Islands, represented by Speaker Hon. Corine N. George-Massicote and Deputy Clerk Mr. Linton V. Leonard. Hon. George-Massicote delivered a keynote on “Keeping Democracy Running,” emphasizing the importance of robust security measures to safeguard parliamentary operations from physical and cyber threats. Her presentation outlined ten key protective security strategies and was endorsed by UK House of Commons security experts. The conference also featured a royal audience with His Majesty King Charles III, Patron of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. The event reinforced the House of Assembly’s commitment to democratic governance, security, and international parliamentary collaboration.
A total of three hundred and twenty eight students from twenty seven schools across the Virgin Islands will showcase their creativity, research and problem-solving skills during the upcoming National Science and Innovation Fair, one of the major highlights of Education Month 2026.
On March 2nd, a concert was held to honor the life of Hamilton Lavity Stoutt, the Virgin Islands' first Chief Minister. The event featured performances of his favorite songs, tributes, and video presentations reflecting on his contributions to education and development. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley made special presentations, and after the concert, H. Lavity Stoutt Day was observed on March 3rd with wreath-laying ceremonies at his gravesite. Premier Wheatley, Opposition Leader Ronnie Skelton, and his daughter Peggy Stoutt laid the wreaths. The celebrations emphasized Stoutt's lasting impact on the Virgin Islands.
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.