Local News
Contract For Airport Development Project Awarded to KPMG (BVI) Ltd.
The Government of the Virgin Islands, in collaboration with the British Virgin Islands Airports Authority (BVIAA), has awarded the contract to undertake crucial works on the long-awaited airport development project, to KPMG (BVI) Ltd.
After an extensive tendering process involving eight reputable companies, KPMG (BVI) emerged as the preferred bidder. The company is set to commence development works, with a clear timeline aimed at completing the business case within the next three months. This critical phase aligns with the UK’s 5-case model, ensuring a comprehensive and strategic approach to airport development.
Minister of Communications and Works Honourable Kye Rymer emphasised the project’s importance and underscored the government’s commitment to effective financial management, transparency, and accountability. “I am well pleased to know that we have persisted and have finally arrived at the stage where we can engage the services of a qualified contractor to chart the way forward with the airport development,” stated Honourable Rymer.
Furthermore, Honourable Rymer stressed the significance of upholding policy principles, ensuring value for money considerations, and enhancing accountability in public sector operations throughout the process.
Chairman of the Board, Mr. Theodore Burke, echoed the minister’s sentiments, affirming the team’s dedication to a seamless and transparent process that aligns with the Government’s financial management protocols. “We are dedicated to ensuring that every step taken in this project reflects our responsibility to the public we serve,” Mr. Burke stated.
Meanwhile, Managing Director Mr. Kurt Menal highlighted the wealth of information already available to facilitate the process, emphasising the Authority’s readiness to support the project. “Our team at the Authority is armed with a wealth of information gleaned from various studies undertaken previously,” noted Mr. Menal.
Mr. Menal also praised the competence and dedication of the Authority’s team, highlighting their passion for aviation and commitment to the growth and prosperity of the British Virgin Islands.
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.

Entertainment
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
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.

Entertainment
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut














