The Ministry of Health and Social Development has reaffirmed its commitment to improving health, social protection, justice, and environmental sustainability across the Virgin Islands as it presented its 2025 progress report and strategic outlook for 2026.
The update was delivered on Monday by Minister for Health and Social Development, Vincent O. Wheatley, and Permanent Secretary Tasha K. Bertie, before the Premier, Cabinet, the Deputy Governor, the Attorney General, and senior government officials.
Minister Wheatley said the Ministry’s work is about “safeguarding our people from the cradle to the grave,” noting that by strengthening health systems, modernising social protection, and advancing environmental and justice reforms, the Government is laying the foundation for a healthier, safer, and more resilient Virgin Islands.
PS Bertie emphasised the importance of collaboration, digitalisation, and governance, stating that early engagement with the Attorney General’s Chambers, stakeholders, and the public is helping to build more accountable and people-centred systems.
The Ministry’s efforts are aligned with National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP) Goal 1: Health and Wellness – A Healthy Population, which prioritises healthy living and providing structures for fulfilling lives.
Key Achievements in 2025
Public Health Reform: Passage of the Tobacco Products Control Amendment Act 2025 to regulate vaping and strengthen penalties.
Health Promotion: Hosting of a Cancer Prevention Conference, progress toward establishing a Cancer Registry, launch of the Eat Well Guide, and expansion of the BVI Moves campaign.
Social Protection: Implementation of the Public Assistance Amendment Act 2024 and approval of a new Social Protection Policy.
Justice and Safety: Advancements on the Sexual Offences Bill and Domestic Violence Protocols, plus rollout of a new 911 Computer-Aided Dispatch System.
Environment: Updates to waste management laws, drafting of a Single-Use Plastics Ban, and proposal of a Container Deposit Scheme.
Community Infrastructure: Refurbishment of the Brewers Bay Community Centre, commencement of the tendering process for the East End/Long Look Transitional Housing Facility, and housing projects in Virgin Gorda and Baughers Bay.
Priorities for 2026
Introduce new public health regulations on food hygiene, indoor air quality, and water safety.
Expand cancer screening for cervical, breast, and colon cancers.
Finalise the development of the Social Protection Bill.
Advance construction of the East End/Long Look Transitional Housing Facility.
Pass the Sexual Offences Bill and related legislation.
Strengthen environmental health regulations and update cemetery and burial laws.
Despite fiscal constraints, rising costs, and climate-related risks, the Ministry said it remains focused on innovation, partnerships, and resilience to ensure every Virgin Islander can live a healthy and fulfilling life.