The Ministry of Health and Social Development continues to make strides in strengthening the Territory’s health and social care workforce with the graduation of the second cohort of the BVI Care Certificate.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development, in collaboration with His Majesty’s Prison, has commenced a series of Gender and Human Rights sessions aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of fundamental rights and responsibilities among inmates.
With the Atlantic hurricane season beginning on June 1, the Virgin Islands should take steps to prepare for storms and hurricanes at home, work and in the community.
2025 Speech from the Throne delivered by His Excellency the Governor, Daniel Pruce
Premier Dr. The Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley addressed the inauguration of the Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU) School of Medicine in the Virgin Islands on March 24, 2025. He emphasized that this marks a significant milestone for the territory's healthcare and education sectors. For the first time, students can study medicine locally at an internationally accredited institution, with the program starting on July 28, 2025. The medical school will offer affordable education, provide scholarships, and contribute to the local economy through increased tourism, air connectivity, and job creation. Premier Wheatley also highlighted the long-term benefits of the school’s establishment, such as improving healthcare, supporting edu-tourism, and creating future growth opportunities in various sectors.
The release of the recent Auditor General’s report has prompted significant public discussion, particularly around the adjustments made to the compensation of elected Members of the House of Assembly. The level of public interest underscores the importance of transparency and clear communication regarding the decisions taken, the rationale behind them, and the processes that were followed.
As Premier and Minister of Finance, Minister responsible for Agriculture, Ecclesiastical Affairs, Culture, Tourism and Trade, and as a former Minister for Education, I pause today to pay tribute to one of our illustrious sons, Mr. Hugo Vanterpool, who departed this life on Friday, 24th April, 2026.
The Premier of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) began by expressing condolences to those who have lost loved ones and emphasizing the government’s commitment to democratic accountability. He mentioned the recent trade mission to Asia, where the BVI delegation promoted the territory’s financial services in China and Malaysia. The trip reinforced the BVI’s reputation, and Malaysia’s newfound economic relations position the BVI to offer corporate structures to Malaysian clients. Financial services account for around 60% of BVI’s revenue and are crucial for funding public services. The Premier opposed calls for public registers of beneficial ownership from the UK Parliament, stressing the BVI’s capacity to regulate its own financial services. He then addressed recent tensions between the BVI and the US Virgin Islands (USVI), particularly in the marine sector, where the BVI’s fees have not kept up with the growing charter industry’s prosperity. The BVI government is modernizing its legislation to bring balance to the economic benefits from USVI-chartered vessels using BVI waters. The Premier emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration between the two territories. He proposed a meeting with Governor Bryan of the USVI to discuss the issue and explore further economic opportunities, particularly in tourism. He concluded by reaffirming the familial and economic ties between the BVI and USVI, expressing the desire for both sides to prosper together.
Minister for Education Honourable Sharie B. deCastro has praised RiteWay Food Markets for its ongoing partnership with the Eslyn Henley Richez Learning Centre (EHRLC) during the school’s 2025 Graduation Ceremony. The partnership, through the school’s apprenticeship programme launched in 2024, supports students with special needs by providing hands-on work experience. Two graduates have since been offered employment at RiteWay. The initiative highlights the ministry’s commitment to inclusive education and its broader vision for education transformation under the “Full STEAM Ahead” theme. Businesses are encouraged to follow RiteWay’s example and support inclusive workforce development.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development has reported twenty confirmed cases of Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) in the Virgin Islands between February 12 and 27. Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ronald Georges, noted that the number may be underreported. The virus spreads through contact with infected saliva, nasal secretions, blister fluids, and fecal matter. To prevent further spread, the ministry advises frequent handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and keeping infected people home until symptoms subside. The Environmental Health Division has inspected 85% of daycares and preschools for 2025. HFMD is generally mild, but proper hygiene is essential to reduce transmission.