Local News
Ministry of Environment Takes Action to Ensure Land Distribution on Anegada
The Ministry of Environment Natural Resources and Climate Change took a significant step towards finalizing the distribution of lands to qualified individuals on the island of Anegada. Led by Mr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, an eight-member team embarked on a mission to address this longstanding issue.
During their visit last week, Mr. Smith-Berkeley and his team held a productive meeting with members of the Anegada Lands committee. Expressing optimism, Mr. Smith-Berkeley stated, “We are hopeful that by the end of this calendar year, in collaboration with Anegada residents, they will be able to obtain deeds to their lands.” This statement reflects the commitment of the ministry to fulfill the urgent needs of local Anegadians and ensure that they receive the rightful ownership of their properties.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation, the delegation, along with committee members, conducted site visits to areas of concern on Anegada. These visits allowed them to assess the state of road infrastructure, water supply, and electricity in the subdivisions. This information will be crucial in developing plans to improve the overall living conditions and accessibility on the island.
Mrs. Heather Skelton, Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, with a focus on Crown lands, expressed her satisfaction with the progress made through collaborative efforts. She acknowledged that land ownership has been a persistent issue and emphasized the significance of the progress achieved. Mrs. Skelton stated, “We are not only making strides in terms of land title for Anegadians but also in developing public infrastructure to support the subdivisions.” This holistic approach aims to provide Anegadians with a better quality of life and ensure their wellbeing.
Anegada remains a priority area for the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change for the remainder of the calendar year. Looking ahead to 2024, the ministry plans to equally focus on improving road infrastructure in other government subdivisions, such as Spooners and Nibbs Estates, as well as the sister island of Virgin Gorda. This concerted effort aims to enhance accessibility to lands for all Virgin Islanders.
The Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change is dedicated to the responsible stewardship of the lands of the Virgin Islands and its natural resources. With the implementation of a robust legal framework that promotes environmentally-friendly best management practices, the ministry envisions a sustainable and prosperous future for the region.
Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut
