Local News
Government of the Virgin Islands Unveils Plans for Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport Expansion
The Government of the Virgin Islands has taken a decisive step towards the expansion of the Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport. The initiative, marked by a comprehensive visioning exercise, has now entered a crucial phase with the commissioning of a business case to determine the future trajectory of the project.
The BVI Airport Authority, acting under the strategic guidance of the government, recently issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) aimed at developing a robust business case. This pivotal document will not only outline the financing model for the expansion but will also set the stage for the airport’s transformation.
Honourable Kye Rymer, the Minister for Communications and Works, emphasised the significance of stakeholder engagement during the visioning exercise. “We engaged a primary group of stakeholders who provided invaluable insights that will serve as the cornerstone for the direction of the airport expansion project,” he stated.
In pursuit of meticulous planning and adherence to international standards, Minister Rymer led a delegation to the United Kingdom. During this visit, constructive conversations took place with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), which pledged support for the airport’s development. Minister Rymer revealed that the FCDO recommended adopting His Majesty’s Treasury Green Book 5 case model for the business case, ensuring a thorough and well-considered approach to the project.
Highlighting the importance of public input, Honourable Rymer expressed that the successful tenderer would play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive dialogue. “The public’s input is invaluable, and we want to ensure that the community’s voice is heard and considered throughout the development stages,” he asserted. This commitment to transparency and public engagement, he added, underscores the government’s dedication to a project that benefits the broader community.
“The collaborative efforts between the Government and the BVI Airports Authority underscore a shared vision for a modern, efficient, and world-class aviation facility that meets the evolving needs of the Territory,” Honourable Rymer emphasized. He invited all stakeholders and community members to stay informed and engaged, stating, “Together, we are building the foundation for a brighter and more connected future.”
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
The Civil Registry and Passport Office has announced an increase in fees for United Kingdom passports, effective April 8, 2026.
According to the office, the revised fees apply to new, renewal and replacement passport applications, as well as other related services.
Under the new structure, the cost for a new, renewal or replacement adult passport has been set at £116.50, while the fee for a child passport is £75.50. Adult frequent traveller passports will cost £130.50, and child frequent traveller passports £89.50.
The fee for changes to an existing passport will also be £116.50. In addition, a delivery fee of £14.32 will apply.
The Civil Registry and Passport Office advised that the updated fees are now in effect and apply to all relevant applications submitted on or after April 8.
A bill proposing wide-ranging changes to the Virgin Islands’ electoral system was introduced in the House of Assembly today, Tuesday, April 22, by Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley.
The proposed Elections (Amendment) Act, 2026, is based on consultations with stakeholders and recommendations from observer missions, as well as input from the Deputy Governor’s Office and the Office of the Supervisor of Elections.
“This is the Elections Amendment Act 2026, following extensive deliberations with a number of entities, including a committee of the House who looked at recommendations of various observer missions that came to The Virgin Islands,” Hon. Wheatley said during the continuation of the Second Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly.
He said the bill also builds on work undertaken by the previous House of Assembly. “Also, the last House of Assembly looked at a number of recommendations that were forwarded through the Deputy Governor’s Office and the Office of the Supervisor of Elections,” he said.
Hon. Wheatley said the proposed amendments were developed through discussions on changes to the Elections Act. “We had very extensive discussions about amendments to the Elections Act, and of course, those recommendations were used to make this Amendment Act. This received its first reading some time ago, and now we are here to debate this Elections Act, so that it can therefore become law,” he said.
The bill introduces several reforms to the electoral framework, including expanded access to voting through mobile and curbside options for individuals with physical limitations and the formal use of assistive technologies for voters with disabilities.
It also provides for the establishment of a Department of Elections and an Elections Advisory Committee to oversee voter registration and election administration.
Additional provisions include a formal Code of Conduct for political parties and candidates, along with new rules governing campaign donations and political financing.
The legislation also proposes restrictions on the announcement of major public grants or projects shortly before an election, aimed at addressing potential incumbency advantages.
The bill has already received its first reading and is expected to be referred to a committee when the House of Assembly resumes on April 30, 2026, at 10 a.m., where it will undergo further review as part of the legislative process.
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