The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), in support of the Office of the Deputy Governor, has executed a contract for demolition services at Estate House No. 2, formerly the Chief Minister’s residence, marking a key milestone in the ongoing revitalisation of the Government’s public estate.
The Government of the Virgin Islands is seeking qualified persons to fill several positions on the Gaming and Betting (Gambling) Control Commission.
As Governor of these Virgin Islands, I am pleased to be here today to perform my constitutional responsibilities on behalf of His Majesty King Charles III in delivering the Speech from the Throne. The Speech from the Throne is a tradition in the Commonwealth and Overseas Territories. It is written by the Government and delivered by the Head of State, or his or her Representative. The Speech from the Throne signals the opening of a new Session of the Legislature and previews the legislative agenda and major policies of the elected Government, as it seeks to achieve its objectives and responsibilities to the people during the upcoming Session of the House of Assembly.
The Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation (MFSEDDT) presented at the first Virgin Islands Anti-Crime Summit, outlining efforts by Immigration, Trade, and Labour to combat crime. Key issues highlighted included irregular migration, identity fraud, and exploitation of legal entry routes (Immigration), misuse of businesses for money laundering, unlicensed operations, and false information (Trade), and worker exploitation through trafficking, abuse, and fraud (Labour). The Ministry pledged zero tolerance for corruption, trafficking, and illegal activity, committing to collaboration, enforcement, and public awareness to ensure migration, labour, and trade systems remain fair, transparent, and secure.
On March 15, 2025, family members of 22 honorees gathered at Long Bay, Beef Island, to plant seagrape trees in honor of their ancestors’ contributions to the Virgin Islands community. The Seagrape Tree Replanting Initiative, aimed at restoring the historic seagrape treeline damaged by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, is led by the Ministry of the Environment with funding from Unite BVI. The trees are named after Virgin Islanders who contributed to various sectors like environmental protection, education, and farming. The public can submit nominations for remaining trees until March 21. Future planting sessions will take place on March 23 and 29, 2025, with local residents and high school students encouraged to participate.
Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley announced the completion and submission of the Government of the Virgin Islands’ Self-Assessment Report on the implementation of the 2022 Commission of Inquiry (COI) recommendations. This report, along with the Governor’s final review and public submissions, will help the UK determine whether to lift the Order in Council which allows for potential direct rule. The Premier confirmed that 46 of 48 recommendations have been completed, with the remaining two requiring external constitutional or judicial action. He also introduced the Governance Reform Transition Plan to guide continued implementation and public education. Dr. Wheatley expressed gratitude to all involved and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to stronger self-governance and ongoing reform.
The Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change discussed his participation at the 48th Regular Meeting of the CARICOM Heads of Government in Barbados. He emphasized the importance of regional cooperation for addressing shared challenges such as climate change, trade, crime, and security. CARICOM’s collective response to issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and regional instability was highlighted. The Deputy Premier also noted the discussions on technology and innovation, with an emphasis on the Virgin Islands’ potential in healthcare and digital education. CARICOM’s support for the Virgin Islands’ self-determination was reaffirmed, and he praised Martinique’s steps toward becoming an Associate Member of CARICOM. He concluded by expressing appreciation for the opportunity to represent the Premier and the Territory at the meeting.
Good day, Virgin Islands, On the nineteenth of June, I stood before you to declare water a national critical priority and to share the Government’s commitment to addressing the decades-long challenges in our water system. I acknowledged then, as I do now, the hardships our people and businesses continue to face with unreliable supply, and I said that action and not words would follow.
Ten years ago today, on February 16, 2016, this waterfront area was transformed. On that day, it wasn't just that a pier opened, it was a new chapter for the Virgin Islands. Standing here a decade later, we can see that chapter has been one of progress and prosperity. Now, as we celebrate, I think it's important that we tell the full story, because this facility's history teaches us something valuable about who we are as a people. The vision for a modern cruise pier did not belong to any single government. It was built over time, by leaders who understood that when it comes to building our country, the work must continue regardless of who holds the mantle.
Statement by Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE At the Official Celebration of Life for Dr. Robert Mathavious, OBE