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Government Submits Self-Assessment Report To Complete COI Implementation
The Government of the Virgin Islands has officially submitted its Self-Assessment Report on the Implementation of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) Recommendations, marking a major milestone in governance reform. Premier Hon. Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley announced the report’s approval by Cabinet (April 30), tabling in the House of Assembly (May 6), and submission to the UK Minister (May 8). The report, alongside Governor Pruce’s Final Review, will inform the UK’s decision on whether to lift the Order in Council, which had threatened partial suspension of the Constitution in 2022.
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Virgin Islands Anti-Crime Summit Opens Today
The three-day Anti-Crime Summit, themed: “OUR Virgin Islands: Safe Communities, Prosperous Territory” will commence today 24th September until Friday, 26th September with an aim to garner stakeholder input for the development of a comprehensive National Crime Prevention and Reduction Strategy.
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Gun Violence Highlighted as Primary Crime Concern in Virgin Islands Ahead of Inaugural Anti-Crime Summit
Crime in the Virgin Islands has risen by 13 percent over the past year, based on a comparison of the period from January to July, according to Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Mr. Kenrick Davis, who confirmed that gun violence remains a major concern, but domestic violence is the leading contributor to the overall increase in reported crimes.
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Statement By Honourable Vincent Wheatley On World Obesity Day 2025
On World Obesity Day, March 4, 2025, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development, highlighted the Virgin Islands' efforts to address obesity, emphasizing the theme "Changing Systems, Healthier Lives." Obesity remains a significant public health issue in the Territory, with contributing factors including poor diets, insufficient physical activity, and high alcohol consumption. The Ministry of Health and Social Development is working on several initiatives, including strengthening healthcare services, collaborating with PAHO on the HEARTS and HEARTS-D programmes, reducing trans fats and sugars in food, and promoting exercise through the BVI Moves initiative. Additionally, the Ministry is finalizing national nutritional guidelines in collaboration with other agencies. Residents are encouraged to make small, consistent changes in diet and physical activity for better
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Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development Hosts Engaging Virgin Gorda Easter Festival Forum
The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development has described the Virgin Gorda Easter Festival Forum as a productive and forward-looking engagement that brought together clergy, cultural practitioners, festival leaders and community members in meaningful dialogue on the future of the festival.
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Ministry of Communications and Works Announces Newly Approved Bus Services and Schedule
The Ministry of Communications and Works through the Taxi and Livery Commission and the Tortola Bus Drivers Association announces the commencement of approved public bus services operating across key routes on Tortola. The Tortola Bus Drivers Association, which is newly approved by the Ministry, and already functioning and serving the community, will operate the following scheduled services:
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Keynote Address by Honourable Dr. Natalio D Wheatley, Premier at the Virgin Islands Tourism Summit Peter Island Resort
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.
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Remarks by Hon. Julian Fraser Minister of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change
Hon. Julian Fraser highlighted the Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund as a model for sustainable climate financing, created in response to limited access to international funds for UK Overseas Territories. The Fund, legally established in 2015, is independently governed and aims to support climate adaptation and mitigation projects. With over $5.2 million in seed funding, it will officially launch at COP30 in Brazil. The Fund emphasizes transparency, diverse funding sources, and equitable access for government, NGOs, and private entities.
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VI Government Seeks Long Term Site For Derelict Vehicles
Director of Waste Management, Mr. Marcus Solomon, reported that efforts are underway to remove derelict vehicles from the Virgin Islands and identify a long-term storage site. Proposals are being reviewed to process and export up to 600 derelict vehicles. While the tender process concludes, the current site is being cleaned. The public is encouraged to report derelict vehicles via phone, email, or the BVIGovReportit app. The department is committed to finding a sustainable solution and will consult the community once viable options are identified.
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Two New Books Celebrate Agriculture, Sustainability, and Culture
Two new books by local farmers Jeffrey and Arona Forbes—Johnny the Great Rooster and Arona’s First Garden Colouring Book—will launch on May 8 at Transformation Church International. The books aim to educate children on sustainable farming, the role of chickens in agriculture, and the basics of gardening, while also preserving Virgin Islands cultural heritage. Deputy Director of Culture Anne Lennard praised the authors for their dedication to education and environmental stewardship, noting their contributions as both practical and culturally significant. The event will include readings, signings, and a chance to meet the authors.