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In the News

CRIME SUMMIT IN THE WORKS AS RVIPF AND PREMIER ADDRESS NATIONAL SECURITY CONCERNS

During a recent radio programme, talking points. Acting Commissioner of police Jaqueline Vanterpool spoke on the upcoming crime summit being planned. She vowed the RVIPF support for the innovative summit where her team would address the public. Premier and leader of Government business, who also sits on the National Security Council Dr. Hon. Natalio Wheatley … Continued

PREMIER WHEATLEY DEFENDS PRIVACY SAFEGUARDS IN NEW OWNERSHIP DISCLOSURE RULES

The Virgin Islands’ new Beneficial Ownership Legitimate Interest Regime officially took effect on July 1, 2025, introducing revised rules for who can access corporate ownership data and under what conditions. Premier Natalio Wheatley said the regime strikes a crucial balance between transparency and protecting individual privacy. The law replaces the previous framework with a system … Continued

CDEMA DIRECTOR URGES BVI RESIDENTS TO PREPARE FOR ACTIVE 2025 HURRICANE SEASON

At the 49th CARICOM Head of Government Meeting, Director of Communication, Karia Christopher interviewed Executive Director of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency, Elizabeth Riley, for a timely conversation on disaster readiness. With the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season already underway and shaping up to more active than usual. Riley is urging the residence of the … Continued

Local

DISASTER MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR WARNS OF IMPACT FROM U.S. SATELLITE SHUTDOWN

Director of the Department of Disaster Management Jasen Penn says with the United States ending the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program, which shared weather satellite data with forecasters at the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration would create some challenges for countries including the BVI. Penn said those satellites provided structural information about weather systems, adding they … Continued

Regional

DELILAH PEASE MAKES HISTORY WITH BACK-TO-BACK CARIBBEAN SQUASH GOLD MEDALS FOR BVI

Ten-year-old Delilah Pease made history for the British Virgin Islands at the Junior Caribbean Squash Championships, becoming the first BVI athlete to win back-to-back gold medals at the regional tournament. Competing in the U13 division, Pease delivered a flawless final performance against Trinidad and Tobago’s Gia Ghuran, winning 3–0 in straight sets with scores of … Continued

SUNRISE AIRLINES NAMES NEW CEO TO DRIVE GROWTH ACROSS THE CARIBBEAN MARKET

Sunrise Airways has named Gary Stone as its new Chief Executive Officer, bringing over 30 years of global aviation experience to the role. Stone previously served as Vice President and Regional GM for Latin America and the Caribbean at Sabre Corporation, where he oversaw revenues of over US$110 million. This appointment marks a broader leadership … Continued

NO JAYCEES PAGEANT IN 2025; FINANCIAL STRAIN HALTS REGIONAL PAGEANT

The curtains have closed on one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated pageants, the Jaycees Queen Show, as organizers confirm the event will not return for Antigua and Barbuda’s 2025 Carnival. The decision, announced by Antigua and Barbuda Creative Industries Minister Daryll Matthew during a recent broadcast, comes amid financial constraints and changing regional participation patterns. … Continued

World

TWO DEAD IN MID-AIR COLLISION AT ARIZONA AIRPORT

Two people lost their lives in a mid-air collision between a Lancair and a Cessna 172 at the Marana Regional Airport in Arizona, United States on Wednesday morning. The accident occurred at approximately 8:25 a.m. in what is described as an uncontrolled field, meaning the airport does not have an operating air traffic control tower. … Continued

18 INJURED AS DELTA FLIGHT OVERTURNS IN TORONTO

A Delta Air Lines plane carrying 80 people, including 76 passengers and four crew members, made a dramatic crash-landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport in Canada on Monday, February 17, flipping over upon impact. The incident resulted in injuries to 18 people, including a child. Delta Flight 4819, which departed from Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, … Continued

Sports

DELILAH PEASE MAKES HISTORY WITH BACK-TO-BACK CARIBBEAN SQUASH GOLD MEDALS FOR BVI

Ten-year-old Delilah Pease made history for the British Virgin Islands at the Junior Caribbean Squash Championships, becoming the first BVI athlete to win back-to-back gold medals at the regional tournament. Competing in the U13 division, Pease delivered a flawless final performance against Trinidad and Tobago’s Gia Ghuran, winning 3–0 in straight sets with scores of … Continued

BVI FOOTBALL GETS MAJOR UPGRADE TO MEET INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS BY MID-AUGUST

The British Virgin Islands is preparing to elevate its football infrastructure with the construction of a new artificial turf pitch, a development that caught the attention of regional football leaders and specialists during a recent site visit. Marco, representing Adagross—the company overseeing the turf installation—shared insights into the construction process. “We have some little challenges … Continued

BVI ATHLETES SHINE ACROSS U.S. COLLEGIATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

BVI athletes have continued to make their mark in the world of collegiate athletics, delivering standout performances across major U.S. outdoor championships this month. Khybah Dawson’s impressive 7.60-meter long jump at the SEC Outdoor Championship finals earned him a top 10 finish in one of the NCAA’s most competitive conferences. His performance closed out a … Continued

Politics

SKELTON CLINE CRITICIZES CABINET MEMBERS FOR BOYCOTTING MEETINGS CHAIRED BY DEPUTY GOVERNOR

Members of Cabinet have come under fire from Talkshow host Claude Skelton for what he says is their failure to attend to the people’s business because the Deputy Governor is presiding over the meetings instead of the Governor who is away from the territory. During his Honestly Speaking Radio Programme, Skelton Cline claimed that some … Continued

Community
Crime

LACK OF LOCAL FORENSICS AND CCTV HAMPERS BVI MURDER PROBES, SAYS ACTING COMMISSIONER

Amid active investigations into three fatal shootings this year, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed it lacks the capacity to conduct local ballistic testing and faces inconsistent access to surveillance footage across the affected areas. The victims Quentin Noel , Nyron Erickson, and Eric Albert, were killed in separate incidents in Purcell, West … Continued

1,400 KILOS OF COCAINE INTERCEPTED, BULK BURNED ON-SITE AFTER CLIFFSIDE RECOVERY

Over 1,400 kilograms of cocaine—worth an estimated $144 million—were seized during a high-stakes multi-agency operation between June 17–18, 2025. The effort involved His Majesty’s Customs, the Department of Immigration, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force , and external law enforcement partners. The recovery took place in rugged, cliffside terrain off Virgin Gorda’s coast following the … Continued

Entertainment

QUESTIONS LOOM AS PREMIER URGED TO REVEAL CASH AMOUNTS FOR ENTERTAINMENT SUPPORT

The issue of utilizing government funds to sponsor private entertainment events continues to be a cause for concern. At a recent government organized press conference, the Premier was asked to confirm the cash component of sponsorship to the BVI Music Festival which is being held this weekend at Cane Garden Bay, and YOLO Promotions from … Continued

BVITBFC LAUNCHES ITS INAUGURAL FILM FESTIVAL: 284 EXCELLENCE FILM FESTIVAL

The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) proudly announces the 284 Excellence Film Festival (284XFF), a landmark event aimed at bridging the gap between Caribbean literature and Cinema. Spearheaded by the BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission, this inaugural festival will run from 30th October to 2nd November 2025, offering a vibrant … Continued

DYAS VOICE KICKS OFF WITH FAITH-FOCUSED INTERVIEW WITH J’MAR PENN

The Department of Youth Affairs and Sports launched its new youth-centered podcast, DYAS Voice, with a deeply personal and inspiring first episode featuring 19-year-old BVI content creator J’mar Penn, who reflected on how his faith has shaped his creative path. In a candid conversation, Penn opened up about how boredom after high school led him … Continued

Business

GOVERNMENT SEEKS PRICE STABILITY ON FOOD ITEMS AS $7.25 MINIMUM WAGE TAKES EFFECT

Junior Minister for Financial Services and Economic Development Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE, met with representatives from major local supermarkets to discuss measures aimed at maintaining stable prices on essential food items. The meeting held June 27 formed part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the cost of living for residents, particularly in light of … Continued

94% OF FINTECH LEADERS SAY CROSS-BORDER EXPANSION IS CRUCIAL, SAYS BVI FINANCE REPORT

The Destination Digital report launched last week by BVI Finance, reveals the strategic priorities, challenges, and jurisdictional considerations facing global fintech businesses. BVI Finance says that based on the views of 451 fintech executives from the world’s major financial hubs, it finds a striking 94% of global fintech leaders consider cross-border growth either critical or … Continued

PREMIER WHEATLEY: BVI MUST KEEP MARKETING FINANCIAL SERVICES AMID GLOBAL SCRUTINY

While the Virgin Islands faces increased scrutiny in its financial services sector it is important that they continue to market the territory’s offerings. That’s according to Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. Natalio Wheatley who spoke on the sidelines of the Fintech on the Seas Conference held here recently. The conference focused on dialogue, exploration, … Continued

BVI DOUBLES DOWN ON FINANCIAL SERVICES INNOVATION WITH GLOBAL FINTECH SHOWCASE

Facing mounting pressure from the United Kingdom over financial transparency, the British Virgin Islands is accelerating its push to modernize its financial services sector — spotlighting FinTech, digital assets, and regulatory innovation as key elements of its national economic strategy. The territory’s efforts were on full display at the FinTech on the Seas conference, held … Continued

Government

GOVERNMENT SEEKS PRICE STABILITY ON FOOD ITEMS AS $7.25 MINIMUM WAGE TAKES EFFECT

Junior Minister for Financial Services and Economic Development Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE, met with representatives from major local supermarkets to discuss measures aimed at maintaining stable prices on essential food items. The meeting held June 27 formed part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the cost of living for residents, particularly in light of … Continued

PEDESTRIAN ACCESS, BEAUTIFICATION, AND DRAINAGE TOP PRIORITIES IN ROAD TOWN RENEWAL

Road Town is preparing for a long-anticipated transformation, as the Virgin Islands government allocates $1.2 million to begin a phased redevelopment of the capital. The initiative will be guided by a public-private partnership model, focused on strategic upgrades, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable community development. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley, speaking during the recent Road Town Partnership … Continued

Opinion

BVI LACKS LEADERSHIP TO ADDRESS LAW ENFORCEMENT REVIEW RECOMMENDATIONS – A LEGAL TEAM SHOULD BE FORMED

A talk show host says the BVI is in what she calls a critical position with some of the recommendations in the UK’s published Law Enforcement Review Report and she believes the government does not have the leadership to address it. Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley says that he categorically rejects some of the recommendations, but … Continued

LOCAL BUSINESSMAN URGES BVI TO BOOST LOCAL FARMING AMID U.S. TARIFFS

A local businessman believes it is time the BVI tap into the Caribbean market and also produce local food because of the US Tariffs. In an Interview carried on ZBVI radio, Managing Director of Clarence Thomas Limited, CTL Michael Thomas called on government to utilize local farmers through the use of greenhouse technology in the … Continued

COMMENTARY ‘UK LABOUR GOV’T CAN MEND FENCES WITH CARIBBEAN TERRITORIES’

The following Commentary was written by Mr. Benito Wheatley. The Labour Party’s landslide victory at the polls presents a fresh opportunity for the United Kingdom (UK) to establish a genuine modern partnership with the Overseas Territories (OTs) after 14 years of Conservative Party rule in which the relationship with the Territories was severely strained by … Continued

Travel and Tourism

BVI HITS TOURISM MILESTONE WITH OVER 106,000 OVERNIGHT VISITORS IN Q1 2025

The British Virgin Islands has recorded a historic rise in visitor arrivals during the first quarter of 2025, crossing a major tourism milestone not seen in nearly a decade. According to official data from the Government’s Central Statistics Office, the territory welcomed 106,750 overnight visitors between January and March — a 6.4 percent increase compared … Continued

SUNRISE AIRLINES NAMES NEW CEO TO DRIVE GROWTH ACROSS THE CARIBBEAN MARKET

Sunrise Airways has named Gary Stone as its new Chief Executive Officer, bringing over 30 years of global aviation experience to the role. Stone previously served as Vice President and Regional GM for Latin America and the Caribbean at Sabre Corporation, where he oversaw revenues of over US$110 million. This appointment marks a broader leadership … Continued

Press Release

SUPPLIER MISAPPROPRIATES VIRGIN ISLANDS ICON AWARDS FUNDS – MATTER TURNED OVER TO AUTHORITIES

The producers of The Virgin Islands Icon Awards (VIcons), a celebration of Virgin Islands excellence, are deeply dismayed to report a serious breach of trust involving a contracted supplier. During a routine check on expected deliverables, including the swag bags and their contents, for The Virgin Islands Icon Awards held Sunday, it was discovered that … Continued

NEW ERA OF PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN VIRGIN ISLANDS AND SINT MAARTEN

Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley recently led a delegation to a strategic trade mission to Sint Maarten, to engage in high-level dialogue to advance mutual interests in maritime, trade, agriculture, tourism, health services, and financial services. The premier and his team met with Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina, senior officials, … Continued

OECS EXTENDS SUPPORT AND SOLIDARITY IN SUPPOPRT OF THE POLITICAL AND CONSTITUTIONAL FUTURE OF THE BVI

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has extended its firm support and solidarity to the Government and people of the British Virgin Islands (BVI) as they continue their journey toward achieving a full measure of self-government and realizing their aspirations for constitutional advancement and political self-determination. The OECS sat it commends the BVI on … Continued

Health

MINISTRY OF HEALTH SOUNDS ALARM ON DIABETES, HEART DISEASE, AND CANCER IN YOUTH

The Ministry of Health and the BVI Health Services Authority say there is growing concern over rising cases of diabetes, heart disease, and cancer across the Virgin Islands with more cases now appearing among younger residents. In response, the Ministry has launched Red Loud, a national awareness initiative focused on nutrition, preventative care, and lifestyle … Continued

HEALTH MINISTRY, HM PRISON TEAM UP TO IMPROVE ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES

The Ministry of Health and Social Development’s interdepartmental partnership with His Majesty’s Prison is bearing fruit with improvements to waste disposal practices and environmental sustainability at the facility. The initiative took shape following a recent Senior Management Team meeting chaired by Permanent Secretary Ms. Tasha Bertie and brought together Heads of Departments of Waste Management … Continued

Weather

DISASTER MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR WARNS OF IMPACT FROM U.S. SATELLITE SHUTDOWN

Director of the Department of Disaster Management Jasen Penn says with the United States ending the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program, which shared weather satellite data with forecasters at the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration would create some challenges for countries including the BVI. Penn said those satellites provided structural information about weather systems, adding they … Continued

“PREP NOW”: DISASTER MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR AND DEPUTY PREMIER WARN OF UNPREDICTABLE STORM SEASON

Officials are warning residents to complete hurricane preparations now, citing weakened satellite forecasting and shifting storm trends as the territory approaches the most active stretch of the 2025 season. Speaking during Virgin Islands Voice, Director of Disaster Management Jason Penn confirmed that despite a slow start, the season remains classified as above average, with 16 … Continued

Education

“SKILLS PAY THE BILLS”: TECHNICAL STUDIES GRADS CELEBRATED FOR PRACTICAL EXCELLENCE

The 24 graduates of the Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies were reminded that technical vocational education and training is not something to be looked down on, nor is it merely a fallback option. As Education Minister Sharie De Castro told the class of 2025, “skills pay the bills.” Minister De Castro delivered this message … Continued

BREGADO FLAX CLASS OF 2025 HONOURED AS ‘LEGACY IN MOTION’ IN INSPIRING CEREMONY

Guided by the powerful theme, “In the footsteps of giants, class of 2025 fated for greatness beyond limits,” a total of 37 proud students marked a significant milestone as they graduated from the Bregado Flax Education Centre Secondary Division on Wednesday, June 25th. Leading the class with distinction was Valedictorian Shania Kanhai, while the honour … Continued

Andrew Fahie Trial

EARLY RELEASE FOR KADEEM & OLEANVINE MAYNARD RAISES QUESTIONS

The federal release dates for Kadeem Stephan Maynard and Oleanvine Pickering Maynard have been suddenly moved up, raising questions about the circumstances behind their early exits from prison. Kadeem Maynard, originally sentenced to 57 months in prison for his role in a cocaine importation conspiracy involving former Premier Andrew Fahie, is now set for release … Continued

MAYNARD’S SENTENCING DELAYED AGAIN; FAHIE REQUEST ANOTHER DELAY

The sentencing of Oleanvine Maynard, former Managing Director of the BVI Ports Authority has been pushed back once again despite a previous announcement that prosecutors would not be granting any further extensions. The reasons for the additional delay has not been provided. However, Maynard’s sentencing hearing is now reset for June 20th, 2024. Maynard, confessed … Continued

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

Events

“SKILLS PAY THE BILLS”: TECHNICAL STUDIES GRADS CELEBRATED FOR PRACTICAL EXCELLENCE

The 24 graduates of the Virgin Islands School of Technical Studies were reminded that technical vocational education and training is not something to be looked down on, nor is it merely a fallback option. As Education Minister Sharie De Castro told the class of 2025, “skills pay the bills.” Minister De Castro delivered this message … Continued

“FINTECH ON THE SEAS” HIGHLIGHTS BVI’S COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION AND REGULATORY EXCELLENCE

Delegates to a Fintech on the Seas conference held in territory were told that for decades the Virgin Islands has been among the most secure, best regulated jurisdictions for international business. Speaking at the opening of the conference, Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley said Fintech on the Seas is more than an event; it is statement … Continued

Environment

ANEGADA SOLAR FARM TO SUPPLY 90% OF ISLAND’S POWER AS BVI PUSHES GREEN TRANSITION

The Virgin Islands is advancing toward its target of 30% renewable energy generation by 2025, with major developments underway in Anegada and across the Territory. According to Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley, the Anegada Hybrid Renewable Energy & Battery Storage System is now in its final phase. Once operational, the solar farm will supply up to … Continued

DEPUTY PREMIER FRASER SHARES KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM UN OCEAN CONFERENCE IN FRANCE

Deputy Premier and Minister for Natural Resources and Climate Change Honourable Julian Fraser RA attended the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference , held in Nice, France. The global forum was held from June 9 to 13 and brought together Heads of Government, ministers, scientists, civil society, youth leaders, and private sector stakeholders to advance ocean … Continued

CLIMATE TRUST FUND TO SUPPORT SUSTAINABLE ROAD TOWN DEVELOPMENT, SAYS BURNETT PENN

The influx of the sargassum seaweed is directly related to climate change and Environmental Officials want to ensure all the factors related to this global phenomenon are factored into the Road Town Development partnership. Wednesday marked the first town hall meeting dedicated to the Project. The meeting brought together members of the business community, Government … Continued

HEALTH MINISTRY, HM PRISON TEAM UP TO IMPROVE ENVIRONMENTAL PRACTICES

The Ministry of Health and Social Development’s interdepartmental partnership with His Majesty’s Prison is bearing fruit with improvements to waste disposal practices and environmental sustainability at the facility. The initiative took shape following a recent Senior Management Team meeting chaired by Permanent Secretary Ms. Tasha Bertie and brought together Heads of Departments of Waste Management … Continued

Pageantry

MISS BVI PAGEANT CANCELLED FOR 2025, RETURN EXPECTED IN 2026

The Miss BVI Pageant, a staple of Virgin Islands culture, will not be held in 2025, as announced today in a statement from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development. The pageant’s cancellation has been attributed to challenging circumstances around the event’s logistics, which include adequate participation and planning timelines. However, Jr Minister for … Continued

DETROY HECTOR & KIA-MARIE BREWLEY CROWNED AT LITTLE MR. & MISS HAWK PRIDE PAGEANT 

The inaugural Little Mr. and Miss Hawk Pride Pageant held by the Enis Adams Primary School took place this past weekend. The pageant, which featured young students from the school, was made possible by the generous support of attendees, sponsors, and the school’s dedicated parents. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, sponsored, … Continued

Youth

DETROY HECTOR & KIA-MARIE BREWLEY CROWNED AT LITTLE MR. & MISS HAWK PRIDE PAGEANT 

The inaugural Little Mr. and Miss Hawk Pride Pageant held by the Enis Adams Primary School took place this past weekend. The pageant, which featured young students from the school, was made possible by the generous support of attendees, sponsors, and the school’s dedicated parents. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, sponsored, … Continued