Premier Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley has announced plans to pursue a constitutional amendment to formalise the appointment of a Minister of State, a position currently not recognised under the British Virgin Islands’ constitutional framework. The revelation came during an interview on The Big Story with JTV’s Cathy Richards on March 11, where the Premier addressed recent shifts within his administration, including the return of Hon. Lorna G. Smith to government and the reassignment of Hon. Karl Dawson.

The changes, announced earlier in the day, saw Dawson’s removal as Junior Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, while Smith was designated as Minister of State. However, Wheatley acknowledged that the position does not yet legally exist, requiring approval from the United Kingdom to be formally established.

“In the Westminster system, there are different types of junior ministers, including Ministers of State and Parliamentary Under-Secretaries,” Wheatley explained. “While our current constitution allows for junior ministers, we would need an amendment to introduce the Minister of State designation.”

The Premier confirmed that he has informally raised the matter with the Governor and intends to discuss it further in an upcoming meeting with UK Minister for Overseas Territories, Steven Doughty. If successful, the amendment would provide the BVI government with additional flexibility in ministerial appointments.

Wheatley defended his decision to publicly designate Smith as Minister of State ahead of securing the constitutional amendment, stating that she was passionate about the role, particularly in relation to financial services—one of the territory’s key economic sectors. He emphasised that the move signals his administration’s commitment to expanding the governance framework to better reflect the needs of the territory.

“My point in communicating it is to let persons know that this is something we want to get done as quickly as possible,” he said.

While Smith is not a member of Cabinet, the Premier noted that she will be invited to Cabinet meetings as needed to discuss matters related to her portfolio. Under the current system, only five ministers can be full Cabinet members. Any expansion would require additional constitutional reforms, including a potential increase in the number of elected officials in the House of Assembly.

Should the UK approve the amendment, Smith’s position would become official, leaving a junior ministerial post open. Wheatley also indicated that his government may request an increase in the number of junior ministerial positions beyond the current limit of two.

“We would be asking for the ability to have different levels of junior ministers, and I believe it would be prudent for us to request more than just two,” he said.

As negotiations with the UK progress, the government’s ability to restructure its ministerial framework remains uncertain. However, Wheatley remains optimistic that changes can be implemented in a timely manner.

“We will see how quickly we can get it done,” he said, underscoring his administration’s push for constitutional reform.

The proposed changes come at a time when the BVI is preparing for broader constitutional negotiations with the UK. The discussions will not only address the Minister of State position but could also lead to wider governance reforms.

For now, Smith will continue to serve in one of the two existing junior ministerial roles until a formal decision is made.

Premier of the Virgin Islands, Hon. Dr. Natalio Wheatley, has extended his congratulations to Hon. Charles Washington Misick following his victory in the recent general elections in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

In a letter sent on Monday, Premier Wheatley acknowledged the strong mandate given to the Turks and Caicos leader by the people, describing it as a clear endorsement of his leadership. “The overwhelming support given to you by the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands is a testament to the confidence and trust placed in your leadership,” Wheatley wrote.

As Premier Misick begins his new term, Hon. Wheatley offered his best wishes for the successful implementation of national initiatives. “I wish you and your team a successful term in office as you work tirelessly to secure the political, social, and economic development of the Turks and Caicos Islands for the citizens,” he stated.

The BVI Premier, who currently serves as President of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA), also expressed appreciation for Hon. Misick’s support in securing that position. “Please allow me to also take this opportunity to thank you for your support in my bid for the Presidency of UKOTA and express collective congratulations on your win on behalf of all the Overseas Territories,” he said.

Emphasising the importance of regional cooperation, Hon. Wheatley reiterated his commitment to strengthening ties between the Virgin Islands and the Turks and Caicos Islands. “I look forward to your continued collaboration and support as we continue to work together as Overseas Territories leaders for the betterment of our people and to strengthen the ties between our respective Territories,” he added.

The Government of the Virgin Islands remains focused on fostering strong partnerships with the Turks and Caicos Islands and other Overseas Territories to advance shared interests and address the unique needs of their communities.

Henry Prince has been appointed District Officer for Virgin Gorda, effective February 3. In this role, he will coordinate government activities on the island, oversee the management of the Government Administration Building, and serve as the primary point of contact for official inquiries.

Prince brings over two decades of leadership and managerial experience, having previously served as Director of Facilities at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College and Operations Manager at the Bitter End Yacht Club. His academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management, a Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Leadership from the Chartered Management Institute, and a Graduate Certificate in University Teaching and Leadership.

Prince expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to serve the Virgin Gorda community, stating, “The role represents the Public Service’s commitment to maintaining a standard of excellence across the Virgin Islands, and I am delighted at the opportunity to contribute to this progress. I look forward to working and engaging with colleagues and the community in this capacity.”

As District Officer, he will collaborate with Sister Islands Programme Coordinator Monel Nickie, as well as District Officers Carmen Blyden of Jost Van Dyke and Shirley Vanterpool Evans of Anegada.

Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome, MBE, welcomed Prince’s appointment, emphasizing the significance of the District Officer role in ensuring government services are effectively delivered to Sister Islands residents. “Mr. Prince is a valuable addition to the Sister Islands Programme Unit, and I am confident that his skills and experience will allow him to succeed in this role,” she said.

The Government of the Virgin Islands continues its commitment to the effective administration of the Sister Islands through the Sister Islands Programme Unit.