On June 4, 2025, the Office of the Deputy Governor issued a statement addressing false claims suggesting that Deputy Governor David D. Archer, Jr. denied public officers their constitutional rights to freedom of expression and assembly, as protected under Sections 23 and 24 of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007. The statement clarified that on May 30, 2025, the Deputy Governor received and acted on a request from His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Daniel Pruce, to share correspondence related to a peaceful demonstration with Senior Managers, enabling them to guide staff appropriately. The Deputy Governor also provided instructions on how officers could attend the march while ensuring continued delivery of public services, in accordance with established Public Service policies. The statement reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding individual rights and highlighted ongoing efforts to establish a Human Rights Commission.
The National Security Council (NSC) will officially launch the Virgin Islands Anti-Crime Summit with a Youth Rally this Friday, August 15.
Friday, 16th January – The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) today advanced the delivery of critical upgrades to the Territory’s healthcare infrastructure with a Bidder’s Conference and Site Visit for the Major Peebles Wing Clinics’ Lobby Renovations at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital.
The Government of the Virgin Islands invites tenders for road rehabilitation works at Prospect Reef, Tortola. The project includes demolition, excavation, site clearance, and the construction of concrete culverts, drainage, and pavement improvements. Tender documents are available upon request via email to procurement@gov.vg with the subject “Prospect Reef Road Rehabilitation.” A virtual pre-tender meeting will be held on Thursday, 4th December 2025 at 10:00 a.m. (local time). Tenders must be submitted by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 20th January 2026. Late submissions will not be considered. Tenders will be publicly opened at 11:00 a.m. on the same day via WebEx. For full details, contact the Procurement Unit at (284) 468-4245 or email procurement@gov.vg.
Minister for Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, Honourable Sharie de Castro, announced that her ministry is reviewing the Education Act to address violence in schools. She emphasized the importance of strengthening the act to provide necessary support for education in the Territory. The ministry is also using various disciplinary measures to ensure students continue their education while receiving support inside and outside school hours. Chief Education Officer Mrs. Orlandette Crabbe discussed the ministry’s "wrap-around approach," providing resources to students and their families to address behavioral issues. She stressed the commitment to ensuring a safe learning environment for all students. Inspector Rudolph Bobb from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force highlighted the increased police presence in schools and random student searches to prevent misconduct. He encouraged parents and students to seek assistance from the Family and Juvenile Unit to prevent serious legal consequences. The full Public Eye programme discussing these issues is available on the Government’s Facebook page.
Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt Igwe, and Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mr. Theodore E James, have returned to the Territory inspired and enlightened, having attended a five-day workshop on Building Climate-Resilient Food Systems.
The Government of the Virgin Islands is inviting tenders for the rental of a kiosk to provide food vendor services at the Elmore Stoutt High School, Road Town, Tortola.
Public officers in the Virgin Islands were consulted on the proposed Human Rights Commission Bill, 2025 during a virtual Extra-Ordinary Meeting on February 26. The meeting provided a detailed presentation on the Bill, allowing officers to ask questions and understand its impact. Permanent Secretary Mrs. Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome emphasized the importance of public officer feedback in shaping the final version of the legislation. The Bill aims to establish an independent commission to address human rights violations. Public meetings for wider consultation are scheduled, with the first set for March 12, and the public is encouraged to participate and submit feedback online.
The Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market 2026 returns as a vibrant celebration of local talent, culture, and industry, bringing together farmers, fishers, artisans, and families for two days of community engagement at the Road Town Festival Grounds.
Two young Virgin Islands farmers, Marley Donovan of Aukie’s Farm and student Basheera Maduro, represented the Territory at the OECS Council of Ministers for Agriculture meeting in Costa Rica from May 26 to 30. Accompanied by Honourable Dr. Karl Dawson, the farmers participated in workshops and farm tours focused on climate resilience, modern techniques, and market strategies. They highlighted the value of regenerative agriculture and technology in farming. The meeting addressed key challenges facing young farmers and proposed solutions such as mentorship, agro-processing development, and access to funding. The Virgin Islands Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting youth in agriculture and welcomed the establishment of the OECS Agriculture Forum for Youth.