The territory’s efforts to bolster its disaster preparedness face a setback as construction of a new Department of Disaster Management (DDM) headquarters stalls, Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley revealed recently. Speaking at a press briefing, Wheatley expressed frustration with the project’s slow progress. Wheatley hinted at tensions between project management and contractors but assured reporters that … Continued
Demolition crews began work last week on the Sir Rupert Briercliffe Hall, a once-prominent cultural centre that has stood abandoned for nearly a decade. The structure, funded by its British namesake philanthropist in the 1980s, had fallen into disrepair, becoming an eyesore in the heart of Road Town. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley, addressing reporters last … Continued
Despite delays in setting up the festival grounds, the 70th Emancipation Village is set to run as scheduled, beginning this Saturday with the return of the Calypso Competition, according to BVI Tourist Board Director Clive McCoy. The late start to preparations is believed to be partly due to a recent venue change that was later … Continued
The Government of the Virgin Islands will host the Eleventh Council of Ministers: Environmental Sustainability (COM:ES 11) of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States from July 24-25, focusing on the theme “From Aspiration to Focused Action.” As shared by Premier Hon. Dr Natalio Wheatley, the annual conference brings together environment and sustainability ministers from the … Continued
Adacia Adonis will be the first Miss BVI to reign over the entirety of the Emancipation Festival after being crowned historically early in the season, on Sunday, July 21st. She was among 7 contestants who put on an exceptional showing last evening. Here’s a look at the best performances in each category. The full pageant … Continued
The Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service responded to a vehicle fire on Bound Tree Road leading into Sea Cows Bay on Saturday afternoon, showcasing both their capabilities and the challenges they face due to limited resources. More in this report.
The Virgin Islands Department of Disaster Management reports that Saharan dust continues to inhibit tropical system formation in the Atlantic basin, marking nearly two weeks of suppressed activity. The dust, now at peak concentration, has created unfavourable conditions for tropical development. Tropical waves emerging from the African coast struggle against the associated dry air. Experts … Continued
As the territory prepares for the 70th Emancipation Festival, questions about fiscal transparency and event management continue to surround this significant cultural celebration. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley announced that a supplemental budget is being processed for the 70th Emancipation Festival, less than two weeks before the official opening of the festival village. Speaking at a … Continued
The British Virgin Islands’ Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade, Hon. Lorna Smith OBE, has expressed hope that the private sector will consider raising salaries across the board following the proposed minimum wage increase. This sentiment comes amid discussions about the significant gap between the new minimum wage and what is considered a livable … Continued
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has revealed the winning design for a special license plate commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Emancipation Festival. Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer, extended his congratulations to the winning designer, Mr. Shaquille Bell. “Mr. Bell’s contribution to our 70th Festival Celebrations speaks to the liberty … Continued
