The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, is inviting tenders for the Interior and Exterior Sealing and Paint Refurbishment at the Claudia Creque Educational Centre located in Anegada, Virgin Islands.
The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, is inviting tenders for the Demolition and Reconstruction of an Interior Classroom Wall at the Francis Lettsome Primary School located in, Greenland, Tortola, Virgin Islands.
Honourable Members of this House, and to the people of the Virgin Islands, As Speaker of the House of Assembly, I take this opportunity to address a matter of great national importance: the autonomy of this Honourable House and the significance of the House of Assembly (Management) Bill, 2025, which will receive its second and third readings in this sitting.
On June 3, 2025, Minister Sharie B. de Castro provided an update on the Ministry of Education’s strategic efforts, in collaboration with H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC), to expand educational opportunities through partnerships with UK universities and colleges. Responding to U.S. visa uncertainties, the Ministry has prioritized UK options where Virgin Islanders benefit from reduced “home fee” tuition. Key outcomes include a new Memorandum of Understanding with Richmond American University London, allowing HLSCC graduates to enter directly into the third year of a bachelor's programme, and promising discussions with institutions like the University of Westminster, London Metropolitan University, and technical colleges. These partnerships aim to provide more affordable, relevant, and efficient pathways for higher education and workforce development.
At the Fifth Sitting of the House of Assembly on June 3, 2025, Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, provided an update on the Government’s efforts to manage derelict vehicles across the Virgin Islands. He reported that a total of 642 abandoned vehicles were collected from the Havers site—exceeding the initial target of 500—and are scheduled for export by June 19. While the current site will soon be cleared, a new long-term storage location is being sought in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment. In the interim, collection is suspended, but removal notices and fines will continue for hazardous vehicles. To fund ongoing efforts, the Derelict Vehicle Disposal Fee will be reinstated on September 1, 2025, based on vehicle weight, with a public information campaign planned. Additionally, a revised policy is being developed to modernize the outdated 2000 legislation, aiming for better inter-agency collaboration, fee collection at ports of entry, and a more sustainable, technology-driven approach to derelict vehicle management.
The National Security Council (NSC) was updated on incidents in Tortola, including the shooting death of Quentin Noel Magloire in Purcell Estate. The NSC also received reports of possible gunshots in multiple locations, leading to the apprehension of a USVI citizen. The NSC commended the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) for their quick response and urged the public to assist in preventing and detecting crime. They encouraged anyone with information to contact the police or Crime Stoppers. The NSC is committed to working with the community to enhance security.
The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, is inviting tenders for the connection of two (2) 5000-Gallon Water Tanks at the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS). The works will enhance the school’s water infrastructure through the installation of an automatic fill system, interconnection of tanks, and integration of pump systems for consistent water supply.
Premier, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, welcomed the Lieutenant Governor of Guam, Honourable Joshua “Josh” Franquez Tenorio, for a courtesy call in the Virgin Islands on Thursday, 4 December 2025. The Lieutenant Governor made a stopover as he attended a conference in the neighbouring United States Virgin Islands.
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.
Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development, officially launched Vaccination Week in the Americas 2025, emphasizing the theme “Your Decision Makes a Difference: Immunisation for All.” He highlighted the critical role of vaccines in protecting public health, preventing diseases like measles, and safeguarding vulnerable groups such as children, expectant mothers, and the elderly. He addressed the challenges of vaccine hesitancy and misinformation, urging the public to trust in vaccines and encouraging pregnant women and healthcare workers to stay up-to-date on recommended vaccinations. The government is committed to maintaining high vaccination coverage and supporting health systems in disease detection and response. The week-long campaign, coordinated by the BVI Health Services Authority and PAHO, includes community outreach and educational activities to promote immunisation.