The Ministry of Health and Social Development through the Office of Gender Affairs convened a stakeholder consultation to review and identify proposed amendments to the Domestic Violence Act (2011) as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen protections for victims and survivors of domestic violence in the Virgin Islands.The consultation was held at the Ministry’s Training Room in Long Bush and brought together representatives from government departments, the judiciary, law enforcement, social ser...

Law enforcement officers and first responders throughout the Public Sector completed the Concepts of the Incident Command Systems (ICS) Training Course facilitated by the Virgin Islands Public Service Learning Institute (VIPSLI).The training programme was held from 27th - 29th April, and saw twenty-five officers from the Department of Immigration, His Majesty’s Prison, BVI Airports Authority, Department of Disaster Management, Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service, His Majesty’s Customs, BVI ...

The Environmental Health Division (EHD) has successfully concluded Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week, marking a week of meaningful engagement, education and community action across the Territory.Acting Chief Environmental Health Officer, Ms. Henrietta Alexander, said that this year’s observance was not just about awareness. “It was about meeting people where they are, starting conversations, and encouraging real change in how we approach mosquito control in our homes and communities.”Througho...

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is closely monitoring a reported Hantavirus cluster linked to a cruise vessel outside of the Caribbean region and is reassuring the public that the current risk to the Virgin Islands remains low.According to regional and international public health updates, a small number of cases, including severe illness, have been identified among passengers and crew aboard a vessel currently outside the Caribbean. As of early May, there have been eight reported c...

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is encouraging residents to reduce their salt intake and make healthier food choices as the Territory observes Salt Awareness Week from May 12 to 18 and World Hypertension Day on May 17, 2026.High salt intake is a major contributor to high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, which significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.Public Health Nutritionist, Ms. Patrice Maduro, explained that many persons consume mo...

The Cabinet Office Team received an engaging and informative presentation on May 4 from Ms. Bernadine Louis, Chair of the Executive Committee for the 250th Anniversary of the Self-Manumission of the Long Look Free People and Co-Chair of the Long Look/East End Heritage Committee. She highlighted the historical significance of the Self-Manumission of the Long Look Free People as part of the Committee’s ongoing public awareness outreach.Ms. Louis’ presentation formed part of the Office’s monthly...

A Tribute to Astrid Wenske! Truly Fitting 🙏

Richardson-Hodge also One of Six Honourees for the 2026 Caribbean POSH ICON Woman Awards During Caribbean POSH Weekend’s Landmark 10-Year Celebration in the British Virgin Islands