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BVI to Host Major Blue Marlin Catch and Release Tournament in Virgin Gorda

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The Government of the Virgin Islands, in collaboration with the BVI Tourist Board and North Drop Open, is set to host an exciting fishing tournament focused on the catch and release of blue marlin. This event, scheduled for Friday, August 9, and Saturday, August 10, promises to be a significant boost for the Territory’s tourism and sport fishing industry.

In a press briefing last Friday, Junior Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Honourable Dr. Karl Dawson, expressed the government’s enthusiasm for this partnership, highlighting the tournament’s potential to enhance the Virgin Islands’ reputation as a premier destination for big game fishing. “I see the North Drop fishing tournament as the start of something great, not just as a one-off event,” Dawson stated. “We see this as an opportunity that has tremendous growth and potential, not only as a fishing tournament but more importantly for placing the Virgin Islands back at the centre of sport fishing in the world.”

To support the event, the Government has committed a contribution of fifty thousand dollars. This funding aims to ensure the tournament’s success and further promote the Virgin Islands’ rich fishing heritage.

Thomas Warner, Chairman of North Drop Open, echoed Dawson’s sentiments, expressing confidence in the event’s impact on the global stage. “We are confident that this event will make the Virgin Islands world famous in respect to the sport fishing of blue marlins. I encourage everyone to follow us, come out, get involved, and make the BVI a great success,” Warner said.

The tournament is part of the Caribbean Series Blue Marlin Championship and will feature specific rules for participation. All boats must be registered in Virgin Gorda by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 8, and depart from Spanish Town on the tournament days. Participants are also required to attend the awards ceremony. The entry fee is $2500 per boat, with the organizers covering the Tournament and Angler Fees mandated by the Government of the Virgin Islands. Each boat must provide the names and identification of its anglers.

As the Virgin Islands prepares to host this prestigious event, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. The North Drop fishing tournament is not only a celebration of the sport but also a testament to the region’s commitment to preserving and promoting its natural marine resources.

Food and drinks will be available from 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 8, offering a warm welcome to participants and spectators alike.

 

Crime/Police

Prison Superintendent Addresses Attack on Officer at Balsam Ghut

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 A correctional officer was attacked by an inmate with known mental health challenges at His Majesty’s Prison on Sunday, March 30.

Superintendent of Prison Jay Kendall in a statement confirmed that immediate action taken by officers involved to ensure everyone’s safety.

“Our team responded rapidly and with professionalism,” Kendall said. “The situation was de-escalated with appropriate force to ensure the safety of all individuals involved, and the incident was brought under control within minutes.”

Kendall assured the public that both the officer and the inmate received medical attention at Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital and were treated and released the same day.

“I am relieved that both the officer and the inmate are now in stable condition. We are grateful for the medical team’s prompt and compassionate care,” Kendall noted. “Their quick intervention was critical in managing what could have been a much more serious situation.”

The superintendent also praised his staff for their vigilance and quick thinking in responding to the crisis.

“This incident underscores the unpredictable nature of corrections work, where staff must often balance security with managing complex mental health needs,” he stated. “I want to commend my officers for their professionalism. Their actions prevented further harm, ensuring that the situation was contained swiftly.”

Kendall reiterated that the prison continues to face challenges in managing inmates with mental health issues, a concern that has prompted ongoing efforts to strengthen safety and rehabilitation programs.

“For the past 18 months, we’ve worked closely with the Ministry of Health and Social Development and the Governor’s Office to enhance safety protocols, improve officer training, and introduce mental health awareness initiatives,” he explained. “We’ve also upgraded protective equipment and communication tools to ensure our officers can respond effectively in critical situations.”

While Kendall acknowledged progress, he stressed that continuous improvement is essential.

“We are committed to enhancing our procedures and resources to uphold the highest standards of care, security, and rehabilitation,” he said. “Mental health remains a priority, and we will continue to work with our partners to develop better interventions that support both institutional security and inmate well-being.”

In closing, Kendall expressed his appreciation for the collective efforts of those involved in managing the situation.

“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who played a role in responding to this incident,” he said. “We remain committed to the safety, security, and well-being of both our staff and the individuals in our care.”

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Local News

BVI Electricity Corporation Unveils Transparent Billing System, Detailing Fuel Costs

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The British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) has introduced a revised electricity bill format that provides customers with a clearer breakdown of fuel-related charges, in a move toward greater financial transparency,  The new bill, set to be distributed starting this month, was unveiled at a press conference held at BVIEC’s Long Bush headquarters on Thursday.

The redesigned bill includes additional details aimed at helping customers better understand how fuel costs contribute to their electricity charges. It now displays the cost of fuel per gallon as a surcharge, reflecting the base cost that influences energy pricing. It also shows the BVIEC fuel subsidy per gallon, which represents the amount the corporation offsets to reduce the financial burden on consumers. The customer fuel surcharge per gallon, or net surcharge, reveals the final fuel-related charge customers pay after subsidies are applied.

“This initiative underscores our commitment to transparency and accountability,” said Dr. Neil Smith, BVIEC’s General Manager. “Customers deserve to know not only what they’re being charged but also how BVIEC is working to support them, particularly in an era of fluctuating energy prices.”

Chief Financial Officer Carmen Sully echoed this sentiment, emphasizing BVIEC’s longstanding efforts to cushion customers from rising fuel costs. She explained that each month, BVIEC makes a substantial financial contribution to help mitigate high energy prices. By including this information in the bill, the corporation is not just offering transparency but also highlighting the value it provides to every household and business in the territory.

Beyond improved visibility into costs, the updated billing system reflects a broader modernization effort in how customer charges are processed and presented.

The new bill format will be implemented for all BVIEC customers beginning in April 2025.

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Education

VI Celebrates Inclusion at Down Syndrome Awareness Event

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The Virgin Islands reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity and support for individuals with Down syndrome as the Social Development Department, through the Disability Services Division, hosted a Down Syndrome Awareness Motorcade, Sports, and Games Day last week.

Held at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park, the event, themed “Improve Our Support Systems,” brought together families, caregivers, advocates, and community members in a day of celebration and awareness. Participants engaged in interactive games, sporting activities, and discussions aimed at highlighting the importance of strong support networks for individuals with Down syndrome.

The motorcade, a key feature of the event, traveled through Road Town, drawing attention to the cause and encouraging greater societal engagement in disability advocacy. Attendees, including government officials and representatives from various community organizations, echoed the call for continued improvements in support services, accessibility, and awareness initiatives.

Parents and caregivers also took the opportunity to share personal experiences, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges in securing resources and services for individuals with Down syndrome in the territory.

The Social Development Department expressed gratitude for the community’s participation and reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening support systems for individuals with disabilities through continued advocacy and policy development.

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