The Royal Navy ship HMS Trent recently visited the territory to support restoration efforts following the passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto. The ship’s captain hosted Governor Daniel Pruce and Premier Hon. Dr Natalio Wheatley while docked. The crew also met with the BVI Department of Disaster Management (DDM) and representatives from frontline services like health … Continued
It was recently announced that the government of the Virgin Islands instituted a hiring freeze and travel restrictions for public service workers as part of its measures to cut costs while investigating a $20 million salary discrepancy found in this year’s budget. During the Friday August 16th House of Assembly debate, leader of Government business … Continued
Premier of the Virgin Islands and Finance Minister Dr. Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley has come under fire after it was recently revealed in the House of Assembly on Friday August 16th, 2024 that the leader of Government business and Finance Minister inaccurately budgeted for the salary structure for public servants. Premier Wheatley told the House … Continued
In response to growing concerns from the public regarding inadequate air travel services, the Government of the Virgin Islands has intervened, urging Inter Caribbean Airways to expedite efforts to address ongoing issues affecting travellers. Minister of Communications and Works, Honourable Kye Rymer, convened urgent discussions with airline executives following numerous complaints about delays, cancellations, and … Continued
In a move to bolster the local economy and support entrepreneurial ventures, the Government of the Virgin Islands has launched a Small Business Development Grant Programme. According to a recent media release, this initiative, designed to empower local entrepreneurs, is set to provide crucial financial assistance and support services to eligible micro and small businesses … Continued
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, led by Director Theodore James, has announced updated closed seasons for key marine species, including lobsters, conchs, and whelks. The new dates are legally binding under the Fisheries Regulations, 2003, and are set to protect marine biodiversity and promote sustainable fishing practices. The specific closed seasons for 2024 are … 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
The Virgin Islands Inquiries Bill, 2024, introduced into the House of Assembly on Tuesday, has ignited fierce criticism from the Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, Honourable Ronnie Skelton. Skelton lambasted the bill as the epitome of true dictatorship, voicing strong opposition to its provisions and questioning its compatibility with democratic principles. He expressed alarm … Continued
Dr. Connie George has been officially appointed as the first Director of the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute, effective June 18, 2024. Dr. George’s appointment comes following a period of her assignment as the Interim Director of the Institute, since its launch in August 2023. The newly appointed Director brings a wealth of experience … Continued
Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley is preparing to deliver a statement during the upcoming June Substantive Session of the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization. The 2024 resumed session will meet in New York from 10 to 21 June. The Premier made the announcement during a recent press conference. In addition, Wheatley provided an update on the … Continued
