Local News
Governor Issues All Clear as Hurricane Ernesto Passes, Urges Caution During Recovery
His Excellency the Governor, Daniel Pruce, has issued an “All Clear” for the Virgin Islands following the passage of Hurricane Ernesto, signaling that the immediate threat has subsided.
Governor Pruce confirmed that, after consultations with the National Emergency Operations Centre and Premier Natalio D. Wheatley, it is now generally safe for residents to move about. Government offices are scheduled to reopen tomorrow, August 15.
“This means that it is generally safe to move about, and that Government offices will re-open tomorrow, but we should all still use caution,” Governor Pruce stated. He advised motorists to be aware of potential hazards such as ponding on roads and scattered debris, and urged mariners to remain vigilant, as rough seas are expected to persist for the next few days.
While a full assessment of the damage caused by Hurricane Ernesto is still underway, initial reports indicate that the storm inflicted significant damage across the islands. The Territory experienced sustained winds of 48 miles per hour, with gusts reaching up to 80 miles per hour. Rainfall averaged five inches, with some areas receiving as much as eight inches.
The Governor acknowledged the impact of flooding on homes and businesses, as well as the widespread property damage caused by strong winds, high waves, and downed trees. “Many have been impacted by flooding, and will need time to repair and restore their homes or businesses,” he said.
Power has been restored in Road Town and Central Tortola, but Governor Pruce cautioned that it may take time for the entire Territory to be fully reconnected. He also urged residents to check on friends and neighbours, particularly those who may be vulnerable.
As the Territory moves into the peak of hurricane season, Governor Pruce stressed the importance of preparation. “I have one more request: As we head into the busiest period of the hurricane season, I ask everyone to consider how they can prepare for the next storm and take steps to be ready,” he advised.
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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