The Premier’s Office will host town hall meetings to discuss the 48 recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) and their impact on governance. These meetings, part of the Governance Reform Education & Awareness Transformation of the Virgin Islands (GREAT VI), will take place in Anegada, Tortola & Jost Van Dyke, and Virgin Gorda between February 2 and February 6. Government ministers will present an overview of the COI reforms, followed by an open discussion for public engagement. Transportation will be provided for Jost Van Dyke and North Sound residents. For more information, contact the Premier's Office.
The Government of the Virgin Islands will introduce new legislation to improve the management of education, youth affairs, and sports. This includes amendments to the Education Amendment Act (2014), the Early Childhood Policy, and the Special Education Policy, as well as revisions to the Graduation Policy, National Youth Policy, and National Sports Policy. The Governor also announced the amendment of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) Act and the repeal of the BVI College Fund Act. Amendments to the Recreation Trust Act will also be made to ensure good governance. These legislative changes aim to improve education, sports, and recreational facilities in the Territory.
Mrs. Sheila Brathwaite claimed first place in the 2025 Adult Spell-Off: Seniors Edition, hosted by the Social Development Department in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Social Development and VI Adult Spell Off. Mrs. Sylvia George and Miss Carren Mactavious secured second and third places, respectively, in the spirited competition that highlighted active ageing and lifelong learning. The event, held as part of Senior Citizens’ Month, also featured notable participants such as Mrs. Jennifer Bertie and Dr. Charles Wheatley. Government officials praised the seniors for their brilliance and community spirit, reaffirming their commitment to programmes that empower and celebrate older adults in the Virgin Islands.
The BVI Health Services Authority, in collaboration with the Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency, will carry out critical repairs and upgrades to the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, including the Major Peebles Wing and Annex. Health Minister Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley emphasized that these renovations are vital for maintaining healthcare standards and improving the quality of life in the Virgin Islands. Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley stated that good healthcare is key to the government's vision for the Virgin Islands as a model society. The scope of the improvements includes enhancing infrastructure for medical professionals, improving service delivery, and supporting the hospital's accreditation. The government is committed to building a fully inclusive health system.
Hundreds gathered at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex on Thursday, July 17, to pay their final respects to the late Mrs. Eileene L. Parsons, OBE, former legislator and cultural icon.
The Virgin Islands mourns the loss of Mr. Charles S. Tobias MBE, a visionary entrepreneur, decorated veteran, and beloved member of our community whose legacy is woven into the very fabric of our tourism and cultural identity.
The Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mr. Theodore E. James, has identified several issues affecting the agriculture and fisheries sectors. He was speaking on Thursday, 25th September, as part of a panel of governmental organisations discussing crime trends and factors contributing to crime, on the second day of the Virgin Islands Anti-Crime Summit.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development, Mr. Joseph Smith-Abbott, has underscored the vital role of public officers in the overall development of the Territory of the Virgin Islands.
Mrs. Natalie Fahie-Smith has been appointed as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development & Digital Transformation after serving as Deputy Secretary within the Ministry of Health and Social Development.
Debate on the 2022-2023 Constitutional Review Commission Report will be held on 18 September, 2025.