Local News
Virgin Islands to Establish National Tourism Policy Following Inaugural Summit

The Virgin Islands government is taking decisive steps toward the establishment of a National Tourism Policy, following the recently concluded inaugural Tourism Summit held at Peter Island on January 16 and 17. This policy aims to guide the Territory’s tourism development for years to come.
Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, emphasized the crucial role tourism plays in the Territory’s economy during his keynote address. “Tourism remains a vital pillar of our economy, providing employment, stimulating business development, and enhancing the standard of living for all,” Premier Wheatley stated. “As we strive to sustain this industry, we must do so with a shared vision and collective responsibility.”
The summit, which brought together over 330 stakeholders, tourism experts, and industry leaders, initiated discussions on key strategies to strengthen the tourism sector. A major outcome was the announcement of extensive public consultations, ensuring the final policy reflects the voices and needs of all stakeholders. The finalized National Tourism Policy and Plan is expected by June 2025.
The summit outlined several critical initiatives to advance tourism:
- Sustainable Practices: Investments will be made to protect the Territory’s environment, a cornerstone of its appeal as a destination.
- Empowering Local Communities: The introduction of the Tourism Investment Programme for Micro Enterprises (TIP ME) aims to provide opportunities for small businesses to thrive within the industry.
- Enhanced Visitor Experience: Plans include upgrading infrastructure, integrating modern technology, and offering targeted training programs to elevate service standards.
Junior Minister of Tourism, Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith, highlighted the collaborative nature of the Territory’s achievements, urging residents to view themselves as active participants in the tourism ecosystem. “Tourism is everyone’s business,” she said. “Every resident, whether directly or indirectly involved in the industry, is an ambassador for our Territory. Each interaction, from the taxi driver to the hotel concierge, contributes to the overall perception of the Virgin Islands as a premier destination.”
One of the summit’s highlights was the celebration of Peter Island Resort’s recovery and reopening after the devastating impact of hurricanes Irma and Maria. The resort’s revitalization stands as a symbol of resilience and determination within the Virgin Islands tourism industry.
Permanent Secretary for Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development, Mr. Joseph Smith, reflected on the significance of the summit: “This summit marks the beginning of a significant journey—a journey to shape the future of tourism in the Virgin Islands. Through your participation, feedback, and insights, we will be guided in formulating a comprehensive National Tourism Policy.”
The summit underscored the importance of sustainability, cultural integration, and economic empowerment as key drivers for a robust tourism industry. The Ministry of Tourism pledged to foster a sustainable and inclusive sector, ensuring the benefits of tourism are equitably distributed among all residents.
The Virgin Islands’ renewed focus on responsible tourism, cultural preservation, and innovative solutions is expected to create a resilient and prosperous tourism sector, positioning the Territory as a global leader in sustainable tourism.
Local News
Woman Seriously Injured in Motorcycle Crash at Fish Bay

A woman is in critical condition following a serious motorcycle accident that occurred on Thursday afternoon, April 17, in Fish Bay.
According to reports, the incident occurred shortly after 4:00 p.m. The woman, who was a pillion passenger on the motorcycle, was reportedly going in and out of consciousness at the scene. The male rider did not appear to be injured.
The injured woman was transported to the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital. Her condition has been listed as serious.
Motorists are urged to exercise caution when traveling along the winding stretch of road in Fish Bay, particularly during wet or slick conditions.
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Crime/Police
BVI Begins Vetting of Police Officers, Reopen Search for Commissioner

The Governor of the Virgin Islands, Mr. Daniel Pruce, has announced the start of two major developments in the territory’s law enforcement framework: the formal initiation of a vetting process for all officers in the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) and the reopening of the recruitment campaign for a new Commissioner of Police.
In a statement released today, April 17, Governor Pruce confirmed that legal amendments have been made to the relevant regulations and the agreement with the UK Home Office has been signed, enabling the start of police officer vetting across the force.
The process follows a recommendation made in 2022 by the Commission of Inquiry, which called for all RVIPF officers to undergo background vetting. According to the Governor, while the Police Service Commission (PoSC) has not yet reached the point of engaging with the Home Office vetting team, preparations are ongoing and collaboration with the PoSC will continue.
The vetting process will now move forward under the updated regulations, with a stated goal of vetting all serving officers by the autumn. Once completed, this will mark the first time the RVIPF is fully vetted.
The Governor clarified that police vetting is standard in the UK and other jurisdictions, intended to support professional conduct and enhance interagency cooperation. The initiative is also part of fulfilling a key recommendation from the Commission of Inquiry.
Governor Pruce also confirmed that the recruitment process for the next Commissioner of Police has resumed. The previous campaign was suspended in late 2024, pending the release of the second volume of the HMICFRS Law Enforcement Review. That document provided updated guidance on the qualifications and leadership capabilities required for the post.
A new person specification has been developed, and applications are now being accepted. According to the Governor, the role will require extensive policing experience and the capacity to lead the RVIPF through a period of change and development.
The recruitment process is being led by the Police Service Commission in coordination with the Deputy Governor and the central human resources team. The target is to have a new Commissioner appointed and in post by the autumn.
Governor Pruce noted the importance of cooperation among law enforcement agencies, government partners, and the community. He also acknowledged the continued work of current RVIPF officers during the ongoing reform processes.
Both initiatives—police vetting and the Commissioner recruitment—are intended to strengthen the operational framework of the RVIPF in accordance with local regulations and external review recommendations.
Entertainment
BVI Competes at Subzonal 2.3.3 Chess Championships in Trinidad and Tobago

The British Virgin Islands is participating in the Subzonal 2.3.3 Absolute and Women’s Chess Championships, taking place from April 11 to 18 at the Cascadia Hotel and Conference Center in St. Ann’s, Trinidad and Tobago.
The tournament, sanctioned by the World Chess Federation (FIDE), brings together players from across the Caribbean and parts of Central America, including representatives from Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, Curaçao, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, and others.
Representing the BVI in the Absolute Section are Simon Potter and Jordan Hinds. In the Women’s Section, Alexis Ganigan and Tiandra Scatliffe are competing. The event is organized by the Trinidad and Tobago Chess Association in conjunction with the Confederation of Chess for the Americas (CCA).
The Subzonal tournament serves as a qualifier for future zonal and continental events under the FIDE calendar. According to the TTCA, this year’s competition includes nine rounds under classical time control and follows international pairing standards.
Updates and full standings are available via the official tournament website at chesstt.org.
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