The Government of the Virgin Islands (GOVI) through the Premier’s Office invites Tenders for the Retrofitting for Office Space for the Integrity and Parliamentary Commissions located on the Ground Floor of the H.R. Penn Building, Road Town, Tortola, Virgin Islands.
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.
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.
The Government of the Virgin Islands (GOVI or the “Purchaser”) invites tenders for Vehicle(s) to the Government of the Virgin Islands for use by the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF)
Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio Wheatley launched the Road Town Partnership (RTP) on April 4, 2025, marking a new beginning for revitalizing the capital. The RTP is a public-private-community partnership aimed at transforming Road Town through collaboration, sustainable development, and urban improvement. The initiative brings together government, private sector, and community representatives under a formal structure to create and implement a comprehensive Road Town Development Plan. The Premier emphasized the need for focus, unity, and investment to build a capital city that reflects the pride and aspirations of the Virgin Islands.
On June 3, 2025, Minister Sharie B. de Castro delivered a statement on recent developments at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC), highlighting progress in enrollment trends, programme expansion, and institutional effectiveness. Key updates included a rise in part-time and male student enrolment, growth in technical and marine studies, continued success of the Dual-Enrolment and CAPE programmes, and the start of preparations for HLSCC’s 2028 accreditation renewal. With $900,000 in additional government support, the College also implemented a new salary structure following an Ernst & Young compensation review, increasing faculty starting salaries by 35%. Additionally, HLSCC is exploring four-year degree-granting status, beginning with a bachelor’s in education. These efforts affirm HLSCC’s commitment to providing high-quality, accessible education and align with national development goals as the institution celebrates its 35th anniversary.
Good afternoon everybody, it’s good to see colleagues here in the room and good afternoon everyone who is joining us online. I wanted to take this opportunity update everyone on security matters, including the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and the prison, HMP Balsam Ghut. As Mr Adams said, as usual, after my opening remarks I’m very happy to take questions.
Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley held a press conference on March 21, 2025, where he addressed concerns over rising crime and violence, calling for collective community efforts to tackle these issues. He provided updates from the 76th OECS Authority meeting, welcomed St. Martin as an Associate Member, and discussed constitutional advancements. The Premier also announced the return of Honourable Lorna Smith to the government, highlighted the launch of the UN-Eastern Caribbean Roadmap for development finance, and celebrated the success of the Vybz Kartel show.
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.