SAHARAN DUST CONTINUES TO RESTRICT TROPICAL DEVELOPMENT

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

LOCALS ENCOURAGED TO COMPETE IN THE NORTH DROP 2024 OPEN FISHING TOURNAMENT

Local fisherfolkes are being encouraged to participate in the North Drop 2024 Open fishing competition which is a ‘catch and release’ blue marlin fishing tournament, set to run from August 9 to 10 in the waters surrounding Virgin Gorda. The two-day tournament is part of the Caribbean Series Blue Marlin Championship that aims to promote … Continued

PREMIER: SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDS COMING FOR BVI FESTIVAL

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

SMITH ADDRESSES ‘EMBARRASSINGLY HIGH’ COST OF LIVING

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

DMV Unveils 70th Festival Commemorative License Plate

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

MINISTRY OF HEALTH LAUNCHES ‘WRAP IT UP’ CAMPAIGN TO COMBAT STIs

The Ministry of Health and Social Development has launched the “Wrap it Up” campaign to raise awareness about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and promote social responsibility during the festival season. This initiative focuses on educating the public about the consequences of high-risk sexual behaviours and encouraging safer practices. Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ronald Georges, … Continued

NO COMPROMISE ON SECURITY IN LAW ENFORCEMENT REVIEW – ASSURES GOVERNOR

His Excellency Governor Daniel Pruce has reassured the public that the recently published Review of Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Bodies in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) report was meticulously vetted to prevent compromising national security or the efficacy of law enforcement agencies. Governor Pruce addressed these concerns during his recent appearance on the local … Continued