Message by Dr. the Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley Premier of the Virgin Islands Heroes and Foreparents Day 20 October, 2025 People of the Virgin Islands, Today, we pause to honour the strength, courage, and vision of those whose shoulders we stand upon, our heroes and foreparents. Heroes and Foreparents Day is not simply a holiday; it is a sacred moment of remembrance and gratitude.
The Government of The Virgin Islands honoured outstanding farmers and fishers from across the Territory during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market, held at the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, Paraquita Bay, on Friday, 10 April 2026.
Dr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, delivered remarks at the launch of the Virgin Islands National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) on February 11, 2025. He emphasized the importance of protecting the Virgin Islands' natural environment, which is vital to the economy, resilience, and quality of life. He highlighted the threats to biodiversity, such as climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction, with specific mention of sand mining on Anegada and the decline of coral reefs and endangered species like the Virgin Islands Rock Iguana. The NBSAP aims to provide a clear framework for sustainable development, integrating conservation into national planning. Dr. Smith-Berkeley acknowledged the support of various partners, including the OECS, PC Consultants Ltd., Dr. Shannon Gore, and the EU’s BioSPACE Project, and called on all members of the community to take collective action for conservation.
The Government of the Virgin Islands has taken a significant step towards strengthening the Territory’s cultural identity and modernising public infrastructure with the signing of contracts for the architectural and engineering design of the National Cultural Arena, and design services for Estate House #2 (Oleander House) formerly, the Chief Minister’s residence.
The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), in partnership with the Government of the Virgin Islands, has officially signed two contracts for design consultancy services that will transform the Virgin Islands landscape and advance the Territory’s sustainable development agenda.
A very pleasant and blessed Virgin Islands morning to all of you. I am Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, Minister for Health and Social Development and I want to start by wishing all of our incredible nurses Happy Nurses Week!! I extend warm greetings to our nurses, healthcare professionals, community partners, and all residents of these beautiful Virgin Islands who have gathered to recognise and celebrate this important occasion.
Good morning, colleagues, friends, and fellow citizens of our beautiful Virgin Islands. Today marks a landmark moment in our collective journey toward a greener, more resilient future with the inauguration of the Fanegada Hybrid Renewable Energy and Battery Energy Storage System. This facility powers the island with clean energy for more than 12 hours a day during peak usage—especially now in the height of the tourist season and following the internationally known Lobster Fest—and can run on renewables alone for up to 19 hours. It also symbolises our deep commitment to the principles enshrined in our National Sustainable Development Goals—particularly responsible consumption, climate action, and affordable, clean energy for all.
Honourable Sharie B. De Castro, Minister for Education, Youth Affairs & Sports, launched Education Month 2025 on March 4, with the theme "Innovate, Inspire, Transform: A Reimagined Education for All." The focus is on strengthening education through infrastructure, professional development, and resources. The Minister emphasized the importance of reimagining education to integrate new technologies and diversify the curriculum. Key initiatives include investment in STEAM education, honoring the legacy of Honourable Hamilton Lavity Stoutt, and improving education infrastructure with significant financial investments. Activities for the month include a range of events aimed at engaging and inspiring students, teachers, and the community. The Ministry is also investing in teacher development and partnering with the private sector to enhance learning opportunities. The goal is to create a modern, inclusive education system that prepares students for global challenges.
Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley delivered a keynote address at the Caribbean Postal Union and Universal Postal Union Workshop 2025, emphasizing the vital role of postal services in the Caribbean and the challenges posed by digital advancements and the e-commerce boom. He highlighted the history of the BVI's postal services and the importance of adapting to new technologies like AI and blockchain to stay relevant. Dr. Wheatley stressed the need for collaboration across Caribbean nations, innovation in postal services, and investment in workforce development to meet the growing demands of the digital economy. He concluded with optimism about the future of postal services in the region.
Today, as we launch Education Month 2026, we affirm a truth that every great nation in history has understood: that the true wealth of a country is not found in its bank accounts, but in its classrooms. Not in its buildings, but in its people. And people are built through education.