The Civil Registry and Passport Office has outlined several initiatives projected for 2024 to improve services and increase revenue. A major goal is launching an online component for the e-Visa system, contingent on the government’s online payment portal rollout. This would modernize and streamline visa applications. The Registry also plans to execute public awareness campaigns … Continued
During recent testimony to the Standing Finance Committee the Department of Immigration’s Deputy Chief Immigration Officer (DCIO) advised that there are currently 1,721 pending applications for belongership and residency status. Of those, 275 are belongership applications. The DCIO advised that the department has recorded a massive increase in applications for residency and belongership since the … Continued
The Government of the Virgin Islands is giving unemployed and underemployed residents a chance at new opportunities, with the launch of a new Registration Drive under its RATED Programme. This initiative, named “Coming to a District Near You,” brings the program’s opportunities directly to communities across the islands, ensuring maximum accessibility and impact. The drive … Continued
President of World Athletics Lord Sebastian Coe said he is impressed with the level of commitment observed towards athletics in the British Virgin Islands. Kamal Haynes has the story.
Rising star Adaejah Hodge is already reaping rewards following an impressive start to her 2024 track and field season with her Montverde Academy college naming the Virgin Islander their Student-Athlete of the Week. Competing at the Virginia Showcase in Virginia Beach last weekend, Hodge delivered the fourth fastest time in U.S. girls’ track and field … Continued
Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley is expected to partner with local cancer advocate Dr. Arliene T. Penn to spread awareness on cervical cancer across the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) region. In his message on Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, observed in January, Honourable Wheatley said he will partner with … Continued
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force is urging greater vigilance against underage drinking across the territory after a worrying number of incidents as 2023 came to a close. The Family and Juvenile Unit cautioned that several juveniles engaged in illegal underage alcohol consumption during recent festivities, resulting in some needing medical care. Under the Liquor … Continued
The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has issued a strong rebuke of Governor John Rankin’s request for additional powers to implement reforms recommended by the Commission of Inquiry (COI). In a statement, OECS Heads of Government expressed “alarming concern” over the evolving situation in the BVI and “strongly condemned” any efforts to undermine the … Continued
Efforts are underway to determine a fitting name for the newly re-constructed Jost Van Dyke Primary School. During the 2024 Deliberations of the Standing Finance Committee, the committee was told by the Acting Chief Education Officer that research is underway to inform local officials in the naming process. It was also noted at the time … Continued
The tributes and condolences continue to flow following the untimely passing of the former Minister for Health and Social Development, Carvin Malone. Malone passed on Sunday, January 14 at the Dr. D Orlando Smith Hospital after reportedly being found unresponsive. Premier of the Virgin Islands Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley described Malone’s passing as shocking … Continued
