In a pivotal shift towards revamping its immigration system, the Virgin Islands government has rolled out a new policy aimed at streamlining the way people can achieve Residence and Belonger Status. The policy, recently approved by the Cabinet, seeks to address long-standing concerns, including the residency period required for eligibility, the establishment of clear guidelines for granting status, and setting annual quotas. It also tackles the pathway to Residence Status for children, particula...

Reports out of Trinidad indicate that Carlos Sutherland, a resident of the Virgin Islands, was gunned down in his homeland Trinidad shortly after 5:00pm yesterday evening February 29.Mr. Sutherland is said to have died at the scene of the crime - the home of his Mother, Mount Zion Road, Arima, Trinidad.Details surrounding the killing are sketchy at this time, however, images on social media have shown the bloodied body of Sutherland lying at the entrance to the home. We understand that the ...

Mrs. Rhonda Victor Pinnock to Represent British Virgin Islands at Mrs. Globe International Pageant in Hainan, China.

The Government of the Virgin Islands will be addressing illegal development on the Territory’s Crown lands as well as removal of derelict vehicles, boats and heavy equipment machinery on these lands.Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment Natural Resources and Climate Change Mr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley stated that as per the newly instituted Crown Land’s Policy under the subject of Monitoring and Control, the policy authorises the Ministry of Environment to remove or demolis...

Officers of the RVIPF found eleven illegal immigrants at an abandoned building on Virgin Gorda in the early morning hours of Thursday, February 29. Subsequent investigations uncovered an additional three immigrants at the same location and further inquiries suggests that there are more that have not yet been found.The RVIPF seeks assistance in identifying and apprehending these persons; if you notice anyone unfamiliar, please contact the Virgin Gorda Police Station at 368-5690 or the Immigration...

The RVIPF can confirm a report received regarding an unresponsive male in Apple Bay at approximately 10:45 am on February 27.Preliminary investigations suggest that the male, who entered the territory as a tourist, was surfing when witnesses noticed him experiencing difficulties and brought him ashore, where resuscitation efforts were initiated. He was subsequently transported to Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital and was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.The investigation into this incident is ongo...

As the House of Assembly was called into session on 20 February with a focus on question and answers, frustrations took center stage. Of interest were the frustrations of the Minister responsible for Communications & Works, as Representative for the 8th electoral District posed questions in relation to his plans to fix the water woes in the Territory. As the Minister rose to his feet to address the question, tension could be felt, frustration radiating in his firm response:“I...

His Majesty Prison held its first debate His Majesty Prison held its first debate between male and female inmates as part of its ongoing rehabilitative initiative.The initiative was a partnership between the prison and the New Life Baptist Church and is expected to be an annual event. The female and male debate team argued over the moot, ‘Why is the rate of reoffending so high and what can the prison do to reduce the numbers.’Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vinc...

The Office of Gender Affairs Coordinator Miss Patricia Hackett is stressing the importance of healthy professional relationships in the workplace to ensure high levels of productivity.Miss Hackett while addressing educators at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) at their staff meeting, highlighted the importance of proper communication in the work place as this prevents misunderstanding and misinformation which can foster animosity between co-workers.Miss Hackett said, “As we tr...

“We lost a good soldier because of our timidity, fear and silence.  In BVI, we believe that speaking out is a recipe for victimization, so we avoid ‘the road less traveled.’But unless there is real dialogue in this community, it will never develop to its true potential.In the end, we blame thirteen (the Representatives) when the fault may lie with one (self).He was eloquent, charismatic, strategic, kindhearted, industrious, vindictive, strong-willed, publicly pious, bold, ...

The verdict of ex-premier Andrew Fahie has been in limbo since its announcement on 8th February 2024. He remains locked up in Miami after being convicted of cocaine smuggling and other charges. U.S. District federal Judge Kathleen Williams has still been unable to resolve doubts raised by two jurors after the announcement of the verdict. She initially gave the parties a deadline of 15th February to determine a way forward. Those submissions were completed. However, yesterday, Tuesday during...

In an exhilarating display of talent and determination, young athletes Jamelia Chambers and Tyrique Charles have stamped their mark on the track and field scene, securing their spots in the upcoming 2024 Carifta Games. The dynamic duo, hailing from Top Notch and Raw Skills track clubs have showcased exceptional prowess in their respective events, igniting a spark of hope and pride within the local community.At just 13 years old, Tyrique Charles astounded spectators with a remarkable leap, scalin...

Minister for ommunications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer has announced that the residents of Jost Van Dyke have been reconnected to the British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) grid.Honourable Rymer said electricity was restored this evening after efforts were being made for some time to reconnect the residents to the grid. He added, “The favourable weather and calm waters have allowed divers to make some strides in the restoration efforts, to completion.”General M...

ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS FOUND ON COOPER ISLAND.

We watched it happen in real time. One was posted outside the door, well-armed, moving like a sentry.  The midday sun had not yet reached its zenith.The owners were barred from entry and made to sit while they were being fleeced.  From the safety of the vehicle where they were herded with their coffee, they sounded the alarm.We counted the minutes.  Two down; Certainly, BVIs finest were on their way.  After all, both the Police Headquarters and the Road Town Police Stati...

The RVIPF can confirm a report received after 6 pm on Saturday, February 17, of an unresponsive male at his residence in Lower Estate.The male was later pronounced dead at the scene.Details surrounding his death are not known at this time and Investigations are ongoing, however in unconfirmed reports, our newsroom understands he may have had a seizure. Guavaberry Media is aware of the deceased’s identity but will update at a later time. We extend our deepest condolences to the fa...

The RVIPF can confirm a report received regarding an incident on a barge near Pockwood Pond after 9 am today. Initial investigations suggest that a male entered a tank on the barge and lost consciousness. Two additional males entered to rescue him and also lost consciousness.All individuals have been recovered. Unfortunately, one person is deceased, and their identity remains unknown. Three others are conscious but experiencing respiratory difficulties. They have been transported to Dr. Orlando ...

Officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force executed a search warrant at a residence in Hannah’s Estate on Thursday 15th February 2024, as a result of ongoing investigations into several serious crimes in the Territory. During the search operation, one prohibited firearm and several rounds of ammunition were found.Shawn Morris Jr., 21, of Hannah’s Estate has been charged with Possession of a Prohibited Weapon and Possession of Explosives. He will appear before the Magistrate&rs...

Premier of the Virgin Islands, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley will be attending the 74th Meeting of the OECS Authority in St. Kitts from February 14 to 15.The Premier’s attendance at these official meetings is to continue to promote the overall socio-economic and political interests of the Virgin Islands.Premier Wheatley stated, “As leader of Government business, I will seek to further engage in strategic discussions with our regional partners as we strive together towards a sustain...

The Ministry of Health and Social Development will be hosting a virtual workshop to improve the prescription of medication for the elderly.The “Safe Prescribing for the Elderly” workshop will be held on Thursday, February 29 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. via a virtual platform. The session is geared towards doctors, nurses, pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and caregivers who wish to empower themselves with lifesaving information and improve care for the elder population.Chief of Drugs...