The Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change discussed his participation at the 48th Regular Meeting of the CARICOM Heads of Government in Barbados. He emphasized the importance of regional cooperation for addressing shared challenges such as climate change, trade, crime, and security. CARICOM’s collective response to issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and regional instability was highlighted. The Deputy Premier also noted the discussions on technology and innovation, with an emphasis on the Virgin Islands’ potential in healthcare and digital education. CARICOM’s support for the Virgin Islands’ self-determination was reaffirmed, and he praised Martinique’s steps toward becoming an Associate Member of CARICOM. He concluded by expressing appreciation for the opportunity to represent the Premier and the Territory at the meeting.
Good day, Virgin Islands, On the nineteenth of June, I stood before you to declare water a national critical priority and to share the Government’s commitment to addressing the decades-long challenges in our water system. I acknowledged then, as I do now, the hardships our people and businesses continue to face with unreliable supply, and I said that action and not words would follow.
Ten years ago today, on February 16, 2016, this waterfront area was transformed. On that day, it wasn't just that a pier opened, it was a new chapter for the Virgin Islands. Standing here a decade later, we can see that chapter has been one of progress and prosperity. Now, as we celebrate, I think it's important that we tell the full story, because this facility's history teaches us something valuable about who we are as a people. The vision for a modern cruise pier did not belong to any single government. It was built over time, by leaders who understood that when it comes to building our country, the work must continue regardless of who holds the mantle.
On June 3, 2025, Minister Sharie B. de Castro addressed the alarming rise in serious student misbehaviour, including drug use, violence, and inappropriate conduct in public secondary schools. In response, the Ministry of Education has launched a multi-agency effort involving health and law enforcement partners, established a Student Wellbeing Steering Group and Intervention Task Force, and developed a comprehensive support framework focusing on prevention, counselling, restorative justice, and alternative education. Schools have implemented targeted programmes like BEAM and behaviour committees, while international models from the UK are being adapted locally. The Minister called for community-wide support through trained volunteer mentors and emphasized that addressing these challenges requires collective action from schools, government, and society.
The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Attorney General’s Chambers, is inviting qualified legal practitioners and consultants to submit Expressions of Interest for inclusion on a Panel of Legal Practitioners & Consultants. The Panel will provide a range of legal services including drafting, civil litigation, advisory, and specialist consultancy across various practice areas such as constitutional law, commercial law, legislative drafting, and more. Eligible applicants must be admitted or eligible to practice law in the Virgin Islands and demonstrate expertise in relevant fields. Selected panel members will be engaged on a case-by-case basis under framework agreements, with assignments based on need and performance. Submissions are due by July 14, 2025, and must include detailed documentation to support qualifications and experience.
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.
The Virgin Islands' First Tourism Summit aims to create a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive tourism industry. The Government plans to develop a National Tourism Policy, with consultations across the territory, focusing on sustainability, cultural integration, economic empowerment, and partnerships. Key improvements include the establishment of a Ministry of Tourism, a National Tourism Policy, and support for small businesses. Future initiatives will include a Tourism Investment Programme, a clean and green environment program, and a Tourism Apprenticeship Programme. The government also plans to enhance the charter yacht sector, align agriculture and fisheries with tourism, and protect the environment to ensure sustainable tourism. Public input will be crucial for shaping the future of tourism in the Virgin Islands.
Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley delivered a keynote address at the Caribbean Postal Union and Universal Postal Union Workshop 2025, emphasizing the vital role of postal services in the Caribbean and the challenges posed by digital advancements and the e-commerce boom. He highlighted the history of the BVI's postal services and the importance of adapting to new technologies like AI and blockchain to stay relevant. Dr. Wheatley stressed the need for collaboration across Caribbean nations, innovation in postal services, and investment in workforce development to meet the growing demands of the digital economy. He concluded with optimism about the future of postal services in the region.
Today, as we launch Education Month 2026, we affirm a truth that every great nation in history has understood: that the true wealth of a country is not found in its bank accounts, but in its classrooms. Not in its buildings, but in its people. And people are built through education.