The Premier of the Virgin Islands has indicated that government is actively working toward the introduction of civil partnerships to provide legal recognition for same-sex couples, a development that has renewed debate across the Territory on constitutional rights, equality and international obligations.The comments come against a backdrop of long-standing legal and political tension over the absence of formal recognition for same-sex relationships in the Virgin Islands, where same-sex marriage ...

After years of promises, delays and repeated assurances from government officials, Cabinet has finally approved the National Tourism Policy, a document intended to guide the future development of the Virgin Islands’ most important economic sector.The approval came during Cabinet’s meeting on June 17 and marks what government officials describe as a major milestone in establishing a coordinated and sustainable framework for tourism development.The move is particularly significant beca...

ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI — Governor of the Virgin Islands, Daniel Pruce, has paid tribute to Sarah Penney following her sudden passing, describing her as a beloved member of the Virgin Islands community whose contributions to the arts and environmental advocacy touched countless lives.In a heartfelt statement, Governor Pruce said he was “deeply saddened” to learn of Penney’s death, noting that her passion, energy and commitment left an indelible mark on the Territ...

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is urging residents across the Virgin Islands to make healthier food choices and adopt better eating habits as the Territory observes Nutrition Month.Public Health Nutritionist Patrice Maduro said the annual observance provides an important opportunity to highlight the critical role nutrition plays in maintaining good health, preventing chronic illnesses and improving overall quality of life.“Good nutrition is the foundation of healthy communit...

ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI — The Cabinet Office has announced the appointment of six individuals to the Physical Planning Authority, with the appointments officially published in the latest edition of the Virgin Islands Official Gazette.According to a notice issued by the Cabinet Office, Richard C. deCastro, Shane Winter, Chad Skelton, Dion Jennings, Dion Crabbe, and Diehdra Potter have all been appointed to serve on the Authority. The appointments took effect retroactively...

Today, the Virgin Islands mourns the passing of Sarah Penney—a woman whose impact on this Territory reached far beyond titles, headlines, or public office.For many, Sarah Penney was synonymous with dance, culture, environmental stewardship, and community service. She devoted countless hours to helping shape the lives of young people, teaching discipline, confidence, creativity, and self-expression through the performing arts. Generations of Virgin Islanders passed through programmes she le...

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced his resignation, bringing an abrupt end to a premiership that began with great promise following Labour’s landslide election victory in 2024 but ultimately became mired in political turmoil, internal party divisions, and declining public support.  Starmer confirmed on Monday that he would step down after mounting pressure from within the governing Labour Party, with many MPs concluding that he was no longer the leader best positio...

The crowd stood and applauded an icon.  Some were overwhelmed by emotions.  Others, all but jumped for joy.  But those who saw the bigger picture understood that a piece of BVI history was being made.  But the honoree remained seated as phones were pointed in his direction with the camera app activated.  There were flashes of light.  His image was frozen in time; Captured for posterity.  Feelings of euphoria invaded the psyche of family, close friends and well-...