video

In the News

SIGNS POINT TO POTENTIALLY EARLY 2024 HURRICANE SEASON

 The first tropical disturbance of the year has formed in the Atlantic, signaling a possible early start to the 2024 hurricane season according to forecasters. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is monitoring an area of low-pressure producing showers and thunderstorms about 900 miles northwest of the Cabo Verde Islands. In their latest special tropical weather … Continued

TWO ARRESTED FOR KILLING OF KEMO LETTSOME

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested and charged two individuals in connection with the April 30, 2023 murder of Kemo Lettsome in Long Look, Tortola.  The accused, 32-year-old Vernon Bernard of Manuel Reef and 28-year-old Jelani Marquis of Hannah’s Estate, were taken into custody following an intensive year-long investigation into the fatal … Continued

TWO VIRGIN ISLANDS MUSIC FESTIVALS AIM FOR UNIFIED TOURISM BOOST

With two major music festivals soon taking place in the Virgin Islands, questions have arisen about why the long-running Virgin Islands Music Festival and the new One VI Music Festival are being held as separate events. BVI Tourist Board Events Manager Dirk Walters has provided insight into the situation. According to Walters, the key reason … Continued

NEW CRUISE LINES, ECONOMIC DATA COMING FOR BVI CRUISE TOURISM

Minister for Communications and Works Hon. Kye Rymer provided an update on the territory’s cruise tourism sector following his attendance at the recent Seatrade Global Conference.  A key announcement was that the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) is expected to deliver an updated economic impact study focused on cruise passenger spending patterns in the British Virgin … Continued

CO-PARENTING SEMINAR HIGHLIGHTS CHILD PROTECTION THROUGH HEALTHY FAMILY DYNAMICS

The Social Development Department hosted a conscious co-parenting seminar this month aimed at emphasizing the link between positive co-parenting and safeguarding children from abuse and neglect. The event was part of activities recognizing Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month in the Virgin Islands. Laurel Freeman, Programme Director for Children and Family Support Services, stated that … Continued

GOVERNMENT SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION BILL

The government is calling on residents to review and provide feedback on the proposed Human Rights Commission Bill, 2024 currently open for public consultation.  The Bill outlines provisions to establish the VI Human Rights Commission, detailing its powers, functions, and composition. As drafted, the Commission would consist of five commissioners with equal gender representation, including … Continued

RTW SET TO LAUNCH NEW CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRE

Next week, Roadtown Wholesale Trading Ltd. will officially launch a new arm of their wholesale services with a Customer Service Centre located on their Pasea Estate compound. This launch will include a week-long celebration from 29th April with a grand culmination activity on 3rd May. The launch will seek to acclimatize the business community with … Continued

CARIBBEAN DEVELOPMENT BANK PRESIDENT RESIGNS AMID INVESTIGATIONS

Dr. Hyginus ‘Gene’ Leon has resigned with immediate effect from his position as president of the Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB). The surprising resignation comes after months of being placed on administrative leave as an internal investigation proceeded at the regional financial institution. In a three-page letter sent to the CDB by his St. Lucian … Continued

AIR QUALITY ADVISORY ISSUED FOR BVI

 Residents of the Virgin Islands are being urged to take precautions due to deteriorating air quality caused by a large plume of Sahara dust enveloping the territory. The Department of Disaster Management (DDM) has issued an advisory stating that air quality levels could reach unhealthy ranges within the next 24 hours. The dust plume is … Continued

MINISTER DE CASTRO OPENS LIBRARY WEEK 2024

Hon. Sharie de Castro, Minister for Education officially opened Library Week 2024 on Monday with a written statement to the public. This year’s theme is “Libraries: Moving full STEAM Upstream,” highlighting the integral role libraries play in advancing science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). In a statement released Minister de Castro emphasized the significance … Continued

Local

VI PRISON OFFICERS COMPLETE SPECIALIZED TRAINING

Two officers from His Majesty’s Prison in the Virgin Islands have successfully completed an intensive three-week Control and Restraint (C&R) training course in Bermuda. Acting Principal Officers Ms. Alan Jackson and Mr. Kesena Okoro acquired the latest techniques in officer safety, de-escalation, and personal protection. Superintendent Mr. Jay Kendall highlighted the significance of Ms. Jackson … Continued

SISTER ISLANDS NEWSLETTER SPOTLIGHTS EMERGING YOUTH LEADERS

In the latest issue of the Sister Islands Newsletter, the community is introduced to three impressive and motivated young individuals making positive impacts across Anegada, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke.  From Anegada, 22-year-old Anjali Levons is being recognized as an emerging youth leader. A graduate of the Claudia Creque Educational Centre, Levons currently works … Continued

70TH EMANCIPATION FESTIVAL UNVEILING SET FOR APRIL 26TH

Details are slowly emerging about the highly anticipated 70th Emancipation Festival celebrations this summer. While the lineup of performers remains under wraps for now, the BVI Tourist Board promises an exciting reveal is on the horizon. According to Dirk Walters, Events Manager for the Tourist Board, the first official launch event for the platinum jubilee … Continued

RASHEDA HODGE APPOINTED OFFICIAL RECEIVER

Ms. Rasheda Hodge has been appointed Official Receiver at the Ministry of Finance. The Official Receiver is a public officer appointed by the Government of the Virgin Islands who serves as an officer of the court. The officer assumes various roles, including that of a Court-appointed liquidator, provisional liquidator, supervisor, interim supervisor, receiver, administrator, administrative … Continued

Regional

CARICOM URGES DE-ESCALATION IN ISRAEL-IRAN TENSIONS

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has issued an urgent call for an immediate cessation of hostilities between Israel and Iran, as recent military confrontations between the two nations raise alarming risks of a wider regional conflict. In a statement, CARICOM’s Council of Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) voiced “grave concern” over the escalating violence, including Israel’s … Continued

USVI: HORSE RACING RETURNING TO ST. THOMAS MAY 3; BIGGEST COMBINED PURSE OF $115,000 IN ST. THOMAS HISTORY

According to the Virgin Islands Consortium Horse Racing in St. Thomas USVI is expected to return on May 3rd, 2024. Calvert White, commissioner of the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation, made the announcement recently on the long awaited return of horse racing to St. Thomas at the Clinton E. Phipps racetrack. White was at … Continued

EXXONMOBIL ANNOUNCES NEW OIL DISCOVERY OFFSHORE GUYANA

ExxonMobil Guyana announced a new oil discovery on Friday, March 15, marking their first find of 2024 in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana. The Bluefin well encountered a significant amount of hydrocarbon-bearing sandstone, indicating potential for future development. Drilled by the Stena Drillmax drillship in over 4,200 feet (1,294 meters) of water, the Bluefin well … Continued

CTO REPORTS REGIONAL SUCCESS IN 2023, POSITIVE OUTLOOK FOR CARIBBEAN TOURISM

The Caribbean tourism industry experienced a robust year in 2023, exceeding pre-pandemic arrival numbers by 0.8%, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO). This positive trend marks a significant recovery for the region, driven by a surge in international arrivals and a revitalized hotel sector. Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General of the CTO, delivered the “Caribbean Tourism … Continued

World

CARICOM URGES DE-ESCALATION IN ISRAEL-IRAN TENSIONS

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has issued an urgent call for an immediate cessation of hostilities between Israel and Iran, as recent military confrontations between the two nations raise alarming risks of a wider regional conflict. In a statement, CARICOM’s Council of Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) voiced “grave concern” over the escalating violence, including Israel’s … Continued

OJ SIMPSON DEAD AT 76

Orenthal James “OJ” Simpson, the former American football star who captivated the world during his highly publicized murder trial and subsequent acquittal, has died at the age of 76, his family announced on Wednesday.  Simpson, who rose to fame as a talented running back and actor before his life was upended by accusations of brutal … Continued

Sports

STRIVE CHALLENGE COMING TO THE BVI

Sir Richard Branson has announced that the Strive Challenge, a multi-discipline adventure that combines physical feats with philanthropy, is heading to the British Virgin Islands this summer. In a recent blog post, the Virgin Group founder revealed that a unique edition of the Strive Challenge will take place from August 16-22 on his private island … Continued

PIRATES, POWER OUTAGE & SPARKS SECURE DOMINANT WINS

In a thrilling showdown on Friday evening, the Aces showcased formidable batting strength early in their match, only to be outshone by the relentless onslaught of Power Outage, who surged to a commanding 17-9 victory in an electrifying display of power-hitting. Playing in the Raymond “Mahassa” Mercer & Kathleen Fahie National Fast Pitch League, the … Continued

CAVALIERS AND ROYAL KNIGHTS DOMINATE OPENING MATCHES AMID RAIN INTERRUPTIONS

The 2024 BVI Cricket Association’s T20 Competition kicked off in thrilling fashion at the Greenland Cricket Field, despite rain interruptions dampening play. Cavaliers and Royal Knights emerged as early frontrunners, securing comprehensive victories in their opening matches on Sunday. In a rain-affected encounter, Cavaliers set the tone with a dominant display against Under the Tree, … Continued

Politics

JULIAN WILLOCK TO HON. JULIAN FRASER, “FOCUS ON THE DIRE WATER SITUATION IN D3”

In response to the recent comments made at an opposition press conference seemingly aimed towards him. Businessman Julian Willock has responded to the Hon. Julian Frasers request to stop mentioning his name. In an official statement, Willock said, “I have been bombarded with phone calls, video clips and WhatsApp messages, from District Three residents that … Continued

HON. JULIAN FRASER, “I SUGGEST THE USE OF MY NAME BE DISCONTINUED, IT IS OBVIOUS PEOPLE ARE BEING OFFENDED.”

The Hon. Julian Fraser RA, Representative for the Third District dedicated his presentation in a recent Opposition Press Conference to denounce any misconceptions that he will not be seeking reelection. Hon. Fraser spoke about the number of persons who have contacted him asking whether or not he is retiring from public office, this he said … Continued

RECORD NUMBER OF VEHICLE REGISTRATIONS PROMPTS ROAD SAFETY INITIATIVE

The Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye Rymer, has announced a record-breaking number of vehicle registrations in the Virgin Islands, emphasizing the need for enhanced road safety measures amidst the surge in vehicle ownership. Addressing the House of Assembly recently, Minister Rymer revealed that a remarkable 19,982 vehicles were licensed in 2023, marking a … Continued

Business

CCT AND BVI CABLE TV MARK NEARLY 40 YEARS OF SERVICE

Two pillars of the British Virgin Islands’ telecommunications landscape are celebrating major milestones this April. Caribbean Cellular Telephone Ltd (CCT) and BVI Cable TV, both locally-owned companies, are commemorating nearly four decades of service to the territory. CCT will mark its 38th anniversary on April 18th, 2024. Established in 1986 as the first cellular company … Continued

EXXONMOBIL ANNOUNCES NEW OIL DISCOVERY OFFSHORE GUYANA

ExxonMobil Guyana announced a new oil discovery on Friday, March 15, marking their first find of 2024 in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana. The Bluefin well encountered a significant amount of hydrocarbon-bearing sandstone, indicating potential for future development. Drilled by the Stena Drillmax drillship in over 4,200 feet (1,294 meters) of water, the Bluefin well … Continued

Entertainment

3 UNVEILED FOR MISS TEEN BVI 2024

On Sunday April 21st at Loose Mongoose three young ladies where unveiled to the public for the 2024 Miss Teen BVI pageant slated for June 2nd, 2024. They are Contestant #1 Asha Hyndman, Contestant #2 Tiya Herbert and Contestant #3 Eriel Stewart. Number of visitng BVI Queens were also present at the event. More details … Continued

ADDRESS PROBLEMS, STOP HOSTING ‘PARTIES’

 Opposition Leader Hon. Ronnie Skelton has urged the government to shift focus from hosting celebratory events to tackling the numerous socio-economic issues affecting residents. In an impassioned address to the House of Assembly, Skelton argued that the community has had its fill of “parties” and festivities in recent times amid lingering unresolved problems. He went … Continued

Community

VI PRISON OFFICERS COMPLETE SPECIALIZED TRAINING

Two officers from His Majesty’s Prison in the Virgin Islands have successfully completed an intensive three-week Control and Restraint (C&R) training course in Bermuda. Acting Principal Officers Ms. Alan Jackson and Mr. Kesena Okoro acquired the latest techniques in officer safety, de-escalation, and personal protection. Superintendent Mr. Jay Kendall highlighted the significance of Ms. Jackson … Continued

SISTER ISLANDS NEWSLETTER SPOTLIGHTS EMERGING YOUTH LEADERS

In the latest issue of the Sister Islands Newsletter, the community is introduced to three impressive and motivated young individuals making positive impacts across Anegada, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke.  From Anegada, 22-year-old Anjali Levons is being recognized as an emerging youth leader. A graduate of the Claudia Creque Educational Centre, Levons currently works … Continued

70TH EMANCIPATION FESTIVAL UNVEILING SET FOR APRIL 26TH

Details are slowly emerging about the highly anticipated 70th Emancipation Festival celebrations this summer. While the lineup of performers remains under wraps for now, the BVI Tourist Board promises an exciting reveal is on the horizon. According to Dirk Walters, Events Manager for the Tourist Board, the first official launch event for the platinum jubilee … Continued

CBRTPP JOINS THE RANKS OF GREEN GLOBE MEMBERSHIP

The Cyril B Romney Tortola Pier Park has recently announced its Green Globe membership, solidifying its commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism practices. Green Globe is the leading global certification program for the travel and tourism industry, dedicated to enhancing economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Membership in Green Globe signifies Tortola Pier Park Ltd’s … Continued

Crime

RASHEDA HODGE APPOINTED OFFICIAL RECEIVER

Ms. Rasheda Hodge has been appointed Official Receiver at the Ministry of Finance. The Official Receiver is a public officer appointed by the Government of the Virgin Islands who serves as an officer of the court. The officer assumes various roles, including that of a Court-appointed liquidator, provisional liquidator, supervisor, interim supervisor, receiver, administrator, administrative … Continued

PUBLIC ADVISED TO MARK GARDEN AND CONSTRUCTION TOOLS

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force Criminal Investigations Department has reported a significant increase in the number of non-residential burglaries on Tortola since the beginning of the year, compared to the same period last year. Acting Chief Inspector Kendolph Bobb, head of the department, said that this increase has been significantly influenced by incidents at … Continued

19 ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FOUND AT COX HEATH

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force received an anonymous call shortly after 6 a.m. on Friday, April 19, reporting the sighting of suspicious individuals disembarking from a boat on the seaside at Cox Heath. Promptly responding to the call, officers discovered nineteen individuals of multiple nationalities, suspected to be illegal immigrants, comprising of adults and … Continued

Opinion

MINIMUM QUALITY OF LIFE

The following is commentary by Shaina M. Smith-Archer. I heard about the call for comments in the news on increasing the minimum wage, and there is so much here I don’t know which corner to start at. I think we should first complete the population census to understand what is really going on in our … Continued

THE UNBORN CONSTITUTION PART 2: “THE CALIBRE OF LEADERSHIP REQUIRED IN THIS SEASON IS NOT TO BE TAKEN FOR GRANTED OR LIGHTLY: SHAINA SMITH-ARCHER

In part 1 of this commentary, I started sharing my thoughts on the Constitutional Review and why this exercise is laying the foundation for the best days of these Islands we call home. The more research I conduct on this topic I realise more that the system we have is not truly a democratic system … Continued

THE UNBORN CONSTITUTION PART 1 BY SHAINA SMITH-ARCHER; “WE ARE CURRENTLY WRITING THE VIRGIN ISLANDS’ FUTURE FOR THE NEXT 50 YEARS.”

The following is commentary by Shaina Smith-Archer. I am glad to be alive for such a time as this. When I read about our national heroes like Hope Stevens and Howard. R. Penn and how they wrote our future in their “day,” we are currently writing the Virgin Islands’ future for the next 50 years. … Continued

Government

PREMIER DEFENDS CRUISE TOURISM’S VALUE TO VI ECONOMY

Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley pushed back against the notion that the cruise industry provides little economic benefit to the Virgin Islands. Recent calls from the Opposition and some residents urged the government to prioritize overnight tourism over the celebrated growth in cruise arrivals. However, in remarks made in a recent sitting of the House … Continued

ADDRESS PROBLEMS, STOP HOSTING ‘PARTIES’

 Opposition Leader Hon. Ronnie Skelton has urged the government to shift focus from hosting celebratory events to tackling the numerous socio-economic issues affecting residents. In an impassioned address to the House of Assembly, Skelton argued that the community has had its fill of “parties” and festivities in recent times amid lingering unresolved problems. He went … Continued

BVI PUBLIC LIBRARIES LAUNCH EBOOK PLATFORM DURING WEEKLONG CELEBRATION

The Virgin Islands will observe Library Week 2024 from April 22-27. This year’s observation coincides with World Book and Copyright Day on April 23. Chief Librarian Suzanne Greenaway has underscored the integral role that libraries and literacy play in fostering strong communities. Greenaway said the slate of activities is geared primarily toward engaging the Territory’s … Continued

BVIEC INTRODUCES STEP: A SOLAR SOLUTION TO SLASH ELECTRICITY BILLS

In a bid to alleviate the burden of high electricity expenses on residents of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) has unveiled its groundbreaking Solar Technology Energy Programme (STEP). The initiative, announced by the Minister for Communication and Works Honourable Kye Rymer during a press conference on Thursday, promises to revolutionize … Continued

Andrew Fahie Trial

LEGAL SAGA CONTINUES IN FAHIE TRIAL – PROSECUTION & DEFENCE TO SUBMIT SOLUTION ON MARCH 7

Despite being found guilty on all counts relating to cocaine and money laundering charges on February 8, nearly two weeks following the verdict, the legal saga relating to the Andrew Fahie trial continues as a federal judge grapples with unresolved doubts raised by two jurors about their guilty verdicts. The latest development in what has … Continued

REPOLLING OF JURORS UNLIKELY BUT NOT IMPOSSIBLE – SAYS LEGAL EXPERT

A local attorney with experience in the United States legal system believes the recent request by Andrew Fahie’s legal team to repoll two jurors following their decision to recant their guilty verdicts, is unlikely to be granted. The attorney who requested anonymity noted that while it is highly unlikely for the request to be granted, he said … Continued

PROSECUTION URGES COURT TO UPHOLD GUILTY VERDICT IN ANDREW FAHIE TRIAL

In a recent court submission to the United States District Court Southern District of Florida, the prosecution in the trial of former premier Andrew Fahie has emphatically urged the court to respect the guilty verdict handed down on Thursday, February 8. Fahie was found guilty of four counts relating to conspiracy to import cocaine into … Continued

LEGAL DRAMA CONTINUES – FAHIE REQUESTS FOR THE COURT TO EXERCISE DISCRETION

Former Premier Andrew Fahie has requested the court to exercise its discretion and repoll Jurors B and C regarding their recently published guilty verdicts following his trial. The 12-member jury found Fahie guilty of four counts on Thursday, relating to conspiracy to import a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine into the … Continued

Press Release

BVIFARS PAYMENT PORTAL TO GO LIVE IN JAN 2024

The BVI Financial Account Reporting System (BVIFars) payment portal is set to go live in January 2024. The International Tax Authority (ITA) made the announcement on Wednesday, December 6, as it reminded all relevant entities with reporting obligations to enrol in the BVIFARS portal. By enrolling, the ITA said it would satisfy the entities’ respective … Continued

CUSTOMER SERVICE CARE CENTRE LAUNCHES LIVE CHAT

The Government’s Customer Service Care Centre has launched its live-chat feature, in an effort to ensure customers can easily access the Government’s services. The feature allows individuals to contact the centre through messaging, and receive instant support and is accessible through https://bvips.org. Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome, MBE … Continued

“REMEMBER MY NAME” PERFORMING ARTS PRODUCTION RATED AS A SUCCESS

Director of Culture, Dr. Katherine Smith has lauded the “Remember My Name” performing arts production that honoured ten Virgin Islands heroes as a major success. Dr. Smith said the performance made an earnest call for Virgin Islanders to reflect on the significant contributions made by the ten recently designated heroes and their altruistic efforts towards … Continued

Travel and Tourism

PREMIER DEFENDS CRUISE TOURISM’S VALUE TO VI ECONOMY

Premier Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley pushed back against the notion that the cruise industry provides little economic benefit to the Virgin Islands. Recent calls from the Opposition and some residents urged the government to prioritize overnight tourism over the celebrated growth in cruise arrivals. However, in remarks made in a recent sitting of the House … Continued

STRIVE CHALLENGE COMING TO THE BVI

Sir Richard Branson has announced that the Strive Challenge, a multi-discipline adventure that combines physical feats with philanthropy, is heading to the British Virgin Islands this summer. In a recent blog post, the Virgin Group founder revealed that a unique edition of the Strive Challenge will take place from August 16-22 on his private island … Continued

RYMER: MAJOR CRUISE PLAYERS EAGER TO BOOST PRESENCE IN BVI

The Territory is solidifying its reputation as a highly sought-after cruise tourism destination, according to Minister for Communications and Works Hon. Kye Rymer. Rymer, who recently attended the prestigious Seatrade Global 2024 event, stated that discussions at the conference further highlighted the growing demand and interest from major tourism stakeholders in bringing more cruise ships … Continued

CTO REPORTS REGIONAL SUCCESS IN 2023, POSITIVE OUTLOOK FOR CARIBBEAN TOURISM

The Caribbean tourism industry experienced a robust year in 2023, exceeding pre-pandemic arrival numbers by 0.8%, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO). This positive trend marks a significant recovery for the region, driven by a surge in international arrivals and a revitalized hotel sector. Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General of the CTO, delivered the “Caribbean Tourism … Continued

Events

70TH EMANCIPATION FESTIVAL UNVEILING SET FOR APRIL 26TH

Details are slowly emerging about the highly anticipated 70th Emancipation Festival celebrations this summer. While the lineup of performers remains under wraps for now, the BVI Tourist Board promises an exciting reveal is on the horizon. According to Dirk Walters, Events Manager for the Tourist Board, the first official launch event for the platinum jubilee … Continued

STRIVE CHALLENGE COMING TO THE BVI

Sir Richard Branson has announced that the Strive Challenge, a multi-discipline adventure that combines physical feats with philanthropy, is heading to the British Virgin Islands this summer. In a recent blog post, the Virgin Group founder revealed that a unique edition of the Strive Challenge will take place from August 16-22 on his private island … Continued

BVI PUBLIC LIBRARIES LAUNCH EBOOK PLATFORM DURING WEEKLONG CELEBRATION

The Virgin Islands will observe Library Week 2024 from April 22-27. This year’s observation coincides with World Book and Copyright Day on April 23. Chief Librarian Suzanne Greenaway has underscored the integral role that libraries and literacy play in fostering strong communities. Greenaway said the slate of activities is geared primarily toward engaging the Territory’s … Continued

Weather

FORECASTERS WARN OF ABOVE-AVERAGE STORM ACTIVITY FOR 2024 – 23 NAMED STORMS

Forecasters at the Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project have issued a cautionary prediction for the upcoming 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season, slated to commence on June 1. During a presentation at the Topical Weather Conference, Senior Research Scientist Dr. Phil Klotzbach revealed that the region is expected to experience above-average levels of storm activity. According … Continued

FLASH FLOOD WARNING ISSUED FOR BVI

A Flash Flood Warning has been issued for low-lying and flood-prone areas of the British Virgin Islands, effective until midnight today, Wednesday 7 February 2024. This warning indicates that moderate to major flooding is either occurring or imminent in the specified areas, posing a serious threat to residents and property. Residents residing in low-lying or … Continued

Health

BURT POINT PLANT FULLY OPERATIONAL FOLLOWING RESTORATION & UPGRADES

After languishing in disrepair since the devastating hurricanes of 2017, the Burt Point Waste Water Treatment Plant has been resurrected, signalling a significant stride forward in environmental conservation and public health. A ceremony held on Friday, April 12, marked the official recommissioning of the plant, attended by esteemed dignitaries and officials. Minister for Communication and … Continued

AC REPLACEMENT PART INSTALLED AT HOSPITAL

The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has reported significant progress in resolving the air conditioning (AC) system issue at the Dr. D Orlando Hospital, with the successful installation of the replacement part. In a recent media release, the BVIHSA confirmed that the new component for the AC system has been installed and activated. However, the … Continued

RESIDENTS URGED TO RETURN/DISPOSE OF SPECIFIC FRATELLI BARETTA READY-TO-EAT PRODUCTS

The Environmental Health Division has issued an urgent public notification regarding the recall of Fratelli Beretta Ready-to-Eat Charcuterie Meat Products due to concerns of possible under-processing, which may pose health risks to consumers in the territory. A media release from the Ministry of Health and Social Development noted that the recall specifically targets Ready-to-Eat Coppa … Continued

BVIHSA REVISES COVID-19 TESTING RULES FOR HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS

The British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) has announced a change to its COVID-19 testing requirements before hospital and clinic admissions.  Effective immediately, patients without COVID-19 symptoms will no longer need to undergo pre-procedure testing. However, symptomatic patients and those recently exposed to confirmed COVID cases will still require testing prior to surgeries, procedures … Continued

Environment

BVIEC INTRODUCES STEP: A SOLAR SOLUTION TO SLASH ELECTRICITY BILLS

In a bid to alleviate the burden of high electricity expenses on residents of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) has unveiled its groundbreaking Solar Technology Energy Programme (STEP). The initiative, announced by the Minister for Communication and Works Honourable Kye Rymer during a press conference on Thursday, promises to revolutionize … Continued

INGENUITY MEETS DEDICATION IN PUZZLE THE TURTLE’S REMARKABLE RECOVERY

A gruelling but inspiring rehab journey is unfolding for Puzzle, the green sea turtle who survived catastrophic injuries after being struck by a boat in February. An update posted to Facebook provided some insight 47 days into Puzzle’s recovery journey. The Association of Reef Keepers (ARK) rescued Puzzle and she defied the odds by pulling … Continued

Youth

SISTER ISLANDS NEWSLETTER SPOTLIGHTS EMERGING YOUTH LEADERS

In the latest issue of the Sister Islands Newsletter, the community is introduced to three impressive and motivated young individuals making positive impacts across Anegada, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke.  From Anegada, 22-year-old Anjali Levons is being recognized as an emerging youth leader. A graduate of the Claudia Creque Educational Centre, Levons currently works … Continued

KENISHA SPRAUVE LAUNCHES KIMMY GOES SERIES

Local author Mrs Kenisha A. Sprauve officially launched her book series titled, ‘Kimmy Goes’ on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park, at 3:00 PM. In addition to the launch, the event featured exciting family friendly entertainment activities for children including bouncy castles, face painting, and an Easter Egg hunt. … Continued

ETPS STUDENTS CONDUCT MOCK HOA SITTING

On Friday, 8th March, the Grade 5 students of the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School had the unique opportunity to participate in a Special Sitting of the House of Assembly. Led by Teacher Candia McFarlane, 19 students engaged in a mock legislative session where they proposed constitutional changes aimed at benefiting the Virgin Islands. In this simulated … Continued

VI MOTORS INSPIRES NEXT GENERATION WITH FREE AUTEL TRAINING FOR VISTS STUDENTS

VI Motors recently extended a complimentary Autel Training session to students enrolled in the Auto Programme at the Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies (VISTS), fostering the next generation of automotive professionals in the Territory. The training opportunity was offered during VI Motors’ week-long session with Autel National Trainer Eliseo Rodriguez and NAPA Distribution Sales … Continued

Pageantry