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Premier Wheatley's 2026 Budget Address

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Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley has been elected President of the UK Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA) and President of the Political Council. He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing challenges like climate change and economic resilience. Ms. Tracy Bradshaw, the UK Representative and Director of the BVI London Office, has been appointed Chair of UKOTA. The leadership change highlights a renewed commitment to collaborative governance and advocating for the interests of all UK Overseas Territories. UKOTA serves as a forum to promote dialogue and ensure equitable representation for all territories, especially smaller ones.

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The Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports hosted a panel discussion with health and private sector stakeholders to address challenges and solutions in early childhood development. Panelists emphasized the importance of soft skills, play-based learning, and brain development in the first five years of life. Key speakers included Chief Education Officer Orlandette Crabbe, Dr. Natasha Frett, Ms. Sharia de Castro, and Education Officer Kimberly George. The session highlighted the shift from traditional academics to interactive, skills-based approaches for lifelong impact. The full discussion is available on the Government’s Facebook page.

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The Premier’s Office has successfully hosted a meeting bringing together farmers, fishers, and key stakeholders to develop a shared vision for the future growth and sustainability of the industry.

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In recent weeks, the Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA) has recorded a significant number of vessel-grounding incidents, and the Chief Marine Accident Investigator in the Premier’s Office, Mr. Jerome Padmore, is calling on all vessel owners and operators to heighten their vigilance while sailing in Virgin Islands waters.

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VI Delegation Participates in Workshop on Building Climate-Resilient A delegation from the Virgin Islands represented the Territory at a five-day regional workshop held in Bridgetown, Barbados from 9 to 13 February. The workshop was themed “Building Climate Change-Resilient Water Management Systems.”

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His Excellency the Governor Daniel Pruce chaired the meeting held on 29th April, 2026. All Members were present.

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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.

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The Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA) in the Premier’s Office is urging all mariners operating in the North Sound area to prioritise safety, especially as marine activity continues to increase across The Virgin Islands.

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On March 24, 2025, Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, celebrated the opening of Ponce Health Sciences University’s School of Medicine in the Virgin Islands. He highlighted the school as a major step towards improving local healthcare and education, providing students with the opportunity to study medicine without leaving the Territory. The school will address healthcare challenges, create job opportunities, and foster medical research, while offering scholarships for Virgin Islanders. This initiative is expected to enhance healthcare services and contribute to the Territory’s development.