Local News

SIGTAS 3.0 Tax Administration System to Go Live by End of September

Published

1 year ago

September 8, 2023

Editor

Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, has announced that the Standard Integrated Government Tax Administration System (SIGTAS 3.0) is set to go live by the end of September. Premier Wheatley made the announcement during a statement at the House of Assembly on September 7, highlighting the significance of this milestone for the tax administration system in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).

The upgrade to SIGTAS 3.0 represents a major step forward for the BVI, as it introduces a state-of-the-art platform designed to enhance tax administration efficiency, effectiveness, and overall service quality for taxpayers. Premier Wheatley emphasized that the new system will also provide greater accessibility and flexibility for online payments through the Government’s e-payment gateway.

Among the key enhancements and benefits of the new system is an improved user interface and navigation, making it easier for users to perform various tasks. The integration of online services will enable clients to register, file, pay, and communicate with the Department of Inland Revenue electronically, saving time and simplifying the tax payment process.

Additionally, the new system ensures enhanced security and data protection, conforming to international standards, as well as increased automation, integration, and expanded functionality. These features allow for customization and configuration options tailored to the specific needs and preferences of the BVI tax system.

Premier Wheatley emphasized that the web-based nature of the system enables clients to access it from any device with an internet connection, such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones. The improved reporting and analytics capabilities will generate more accurate and timely reports and statistics on tax performance and compliance.

Several phases of the project have already been completed, including application deployment, technical upgrade, and the delivery of e-tax services such as registration, tax filing, and payment. The final phases will involve training and support for end users, as well as the official launch and ongoing operation of the system. The Inland Revenue Department is currently in the final stages of testing financial statements, payroll, and opening balances modules, which will complete the full suite of services for modernizing the tax payment process.

SIGTAS is a widely used software solution for tax administration, utilized by over 30 countries worldwide, including the BVI. SIGTAS 3.0 is the latest version of the system, offering new features and enhancements for both tax authorities and taxpayers.

Premier Wheatley urged all relevant individuals and organizations to register, as new unique Tax Identifier Numbers (TIN) are being assigned, which are necessary for the full launch of the system. To facilitate the registration process, the Central Government has deployed a team of experts at the Inland Revenue Department to assist taxpayers. Registration requires a valid passport or driver’s license, Social Security card, and an email address. Online registration is also available at http://www.eregisterfortax.gov.vg.

The Government of the Virgin Islands remains committed to the overall development of the territory through sustainable transformation and the continuous improvement of the tax system.

Up Next

International Literacy Day Highlights the Importance of Literacy and Learning

Don't Miss

Board of Immigration Holds Inaugural Meeting and Orientation Session

Click to comment

Crime/Police

Tensions Flare as Parents Confront Elmore Stoutt High School Staff Over Contraband Crackdown

Published

2 days ago

February 21, 2025

Editor

PHOTO: Confiscated items displayed in a slideshow at the recent ESHS PTA meeting, highlighting ongoing security concerns.

A crackdown on contraband at Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) has sparked heated confrontations between parents and school officials, with administrators raising concerns about aggressive behavior from guardians and a troubling rise in prohibited items on campus.

In a letter sent to parents on February 20, Principal Vanessa Garraway revealed that routine searches at the school uncovered a significant amount of contraband and illegal substances among students. The alarming findings prompted stricter policies and the involvement of School Resource Officers from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF). However, instead of cooperation, some parents have responded with hostility.

“We have seen an increase in parents arriving at school and behaving aggressively towards teachers and administrators,” the letter stated. “This type of behavior will not be tolerated.”

The issue of contraband at the school has been growing, and the administration is now taking a tougher stance. Effective February 24, students caught with prohibited items will not only face confiscation but will also be sent home immediately, with an accompanying suspension. Parents will be required to collect their child in such cases.

“We need parents to do more,” Garraway urged in the letter. “It is your responsibility to check your child’s belongings before they leave for school and have open conversations about the importance of following school rules and making positive choices.”

In response to the escalating situation, School Resource Officers have been stationed on campus to curb violent incidents, monitor student behavior, and enforce discipline. Their presence aims to deter misconduct, particularly in light of growing concerns over students making threats, whether serious or in jest. The school has made it clear that any such threats will be reported directly to the RVIPF.

“We are taking a no-nonsense approach,” Garraway wrote, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

The Ministry of Education has also weighed in, calling on parents to take a more active role in supporting efforts to maintain a secure learning environment. “Recent routine inspections continue to uncover prohibited items which pose serious risks to students’ health and well-being,” the Ministry said in a statement.

The Ministry reiterated that matters involving weapons, alcohol, and drugs will be referred to the RVIPF and the Social Development Department for further intervention. Additionally, officials reminded parents that mobile phones are not among the approved devices for use during the school day.

“We are reinforcing a Zero Tolerance Policy for any behavior or possession of items that compromise school safety,” the Ministry stated. “Our goal is to provide a safe and secure learning environment where students can focus on their education without unnecessary disruptions.”

As ESHS moves forward with these new measures, school officials and the Ministry of Education continue to uphold policies aimed at ensuring a structured and secure environment for all students.

Entertainment

Caribbean Baking Awards to Stream Live on JTV – Watch the Region’s Best Bakers Compete

Published

2 days ago

February 20, 2025

Editor

Some of the best bakers from across the Caribbean are gearing up for the Caribbean Baking Awards (CBA), a two-day event celebrating creativity, skill, and the flavours that make Caribbean baking unique. The competition will be streamed live on Jahphix Television (JTV), so viewers from across the region and beyond can watch the action as it happens.

Bakers from across the Caribbean will go head-to-head in various categories, putting their skills to the test in front of expert judges. The competition will feature teams from:

Virgin Islands (US) – Team Hibiscus Sweets
Trinidad and Tobago – Team Trini Cakes Revellers & Team Flavour Masters Possé
Jamaica – Team Sweet Success & Team The Dynamic Duo
Antigua and Barbuda – Team The Glass Jar & Team Sweet Art 268
Virgin Islands (BVI) – Team Bombshell
Dominica – Team Donmnik Dou
Guyana – Team Sweet Secrets
Barbados – Team Bimstars
Saint Lucia – Team Fruit Boss

The event takes place on February 21-22, featuring live baking, expert judging, and special guest appearances. Chef Kareem Brooks from Saint Martin will be one of the judges, while hosts Julie Mango and Ricky “Daphox” Bertie will keep the energy high throughout the competition. The celebration will wrap up with an After Party on February 22, featuring a live performance by Onyan and the 3 Cylinder.

Viewers can watch live on JTV and be part of the excitement as bakers compete for top honours.

Tickets to attend in person are $10. Secure yours today and don’t miss out!

For more details and to watch the live stream, visit https://tinyurl.com/CBAwithJTVchannel55

Entertainment

Lesley and Lestene Maduro Represent the BVI at Caribbean Baking Awards

Published

2 days ago

February 20, 2025

Editor

Lesley and Lestene Maduro of LSL Bakery in Virgin Gorda will be among the bakers competing at the Caribbean Baking Awards, set to take place in the British Virgin Islands.

LSL Bakery, a well-known establishment in Virgin Gorda, has been serving pastries, cakes, and other baked goods for years. Founded as a family business, it has grown into a recognised name in the local culinary scene.

The Caribbean Baking Awards bring together top bakers from across the region, with teams representing the British Virgin Islands, the US Virgin Islands, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, and Guyana. The competition includes categories such as Best Buttercream Cake, Rising Star, Cake Hero, and Best Cupcakes.

The awards ceremony will culminate in the Masquerade Awards Gala Dinner on Saturday, 22 February, at 5:00 PM at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town, Tortola.

The event will bring together bakers, industry professionals, and guests to celebrate Caribbean culinary craftsmanship.

Voting for the awards opened on 7 September 2024, allowing the public to support their favourite bakers.

The event will also be streamed live on Jahphix Television (JTV).

Unable to attend the event in person? Enjoy the two-day action by securing your tickets for just $10. Click the link below to purchase.

Tickets for the gala dinner are available now. More information can be found at www.caribbeanbakingawards.com.