The Virgin Islands Party Government has established a new ministry that will add to the premier’s ministerial portfolios.
This was confirmed during a press conference on Tuesday, May 16, by Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley.
He said the decision to add the new ministry came following discussions with his team.
“After careful consideration and internal consultations, my Administration has made an adjustment to the initial Ministerial portfolios announced after the General Election. I am pleased to report that we have established the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change as a ministry in its own right, that stands separately from the Premier’s Office. I will serve as Minister over this portfolio,” Premier Wheatley stated.
The premier said the new ministry shows his government’s commitment to prioritising environmental issues in the territory.
“This demonstrates the importance we assign to the environment and all the critical issues involved in its preservation and sustainable use, as well as the existential threat of climate change. I am looking forward to the ministry’s establishment of a Department of Environment and Climate Change to respond to these needs,” Premier Wheatley said.