Premier Natalio D. Wheatley has defended his administration’s handling of the financial and operational challenges facing the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA), insisting that issues with the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme and hospital funding were inherited and are being actively addressed.

During an interview on JTV’s The Big Story with Cathy Richards on March 11, Premier Wheatley pushed back against claims that his government has not invested adequately in the territory’s healthcare system. He pointed out that the government’s subvention to the hospital has nearly tripled since the construction of the new facility, increasing from approximately $15 million to $42 million annually.

“To make it seem as though we’re not putting money into the hospital is ridiculous,” Wheatley stated. “Healthcare can make any country go broke, and you cannot fund the hospital outside of having a proper national hea

Premier Wheatley

lth insurance scheme.”

The Premier emphasized the need to reform NHI to better serve the public healthcare system. He noted that while the NHI has largely benefited private sector providers, the hospital receives a fixed amount annually, regardless of the services it provides. He described this funding model as unsustainable and in need of urgent restructuring.

“Part of the problem we have with the hospital is that they get a global figure. That $42 million is not in exchange for any services or goods they provide,” he explained. “When private sector providers charge NHI, they do so per service provided. The hospital, on the other hand, gets the same figure no matter how much service it provides. That just doesn’t make any sense, and that’s something we have to fix.”

Wheatley assured the public that efforts are underway to address these structural deficiencies. He cited the reactivation of the contract committee, as well as legislative amendments being prepared to modify the NHI framework in a way that allows the public hospital to benefit more equitably. He stressed that these issues have existed for years and did not originate under his administration.

“Persons think the challenges at the hospital just started, but think again,” he said. “They’ve been happening for some time, and it’s our responsibility to fix them. We don’t run away from that responsibility.”

Responding to concerns about transparency and accountability, Premier Wheatley urged the public to stay engaged with the government’s efforts. He encouraged residents to attend public meetings and contribute to ongoing discussions about the future of healthcare in the BVI.

“The Minister of Health gives updates all the time, but the question is, do we listen when he gives them?” he asked. “We can always do more to address these challenges, but we need all hands on deck.”

As the government moves forward with its healthcare reform initiatives, the Premier called on the community to take an active role in supporting improvements, citing the contributions of civic organizations such as Rotary and the Lions Club as examples of meaningful engagement.

“We want to see things done, and we are telling the entire territory that we need to work together to make it happen,” he concluded.

The Premier’s remarks come amid growing public concern about the state of the territory’s healthcare system, with many residents calling for immediate action to resolve long-standing issues at the hospital and within the NHI scheme.

The government’s proposed reforms are expected to be debated in the House of Assembly in the coming months.

With the territory facing economic uncertainty, Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, is stepping into her new role with a clear message: unity and decisive action are needed now more than ever.

Speaking during a special announcement on Tuesday, March 3, Smith acknowledged the challenges ahead but made it clear that she’s committed to strengthening the Virgin Islands’ economy and ensuring key industries—especially financial services—remain competitive.

“As the Premier has rightly said, we face turbulent times. We must rise above personal and political differences and stand together for the good of our people and the future of the Virgin Islands,” she said.

Hon. Smith, a seasoned leader with years of experience in international relations and economic development, recently returned from a BVI delegation trip to Asia, where discussions centered around investment opportunities. She sees promise for the territory but cautioned that global economic pressures require smart, strategic planning to keep the Virgin Islands on solid ground.

“How we respond in this critical moment will determine our continued positive standing—not only in Asia but on the global stage,” she said.

One of Smith’s key priorities is making the financial services sector more accessible to Virgin Islanders. She pointed to initiatives like the Financial Services Bootcamp, which provides training and career pathways, as steps in the right direction.

“More Virgin Islanders need to see themselves in this industry—not just as bystanders, but as active participants and beneficiaries,” she emphasized, pushing for workforce development and innovation, especially in emerging areas like FinTech.

Beyond financial services, Smith is also focused on diversifying the economy and creating new investment opportunities. She highlighted programs like Roots to Resilience, which she founded to promote community engagement and economic growth, as examples of the forward-thinking approach needed to build a stronger Virgin Islands.

“Our future success depends on innovation, strong regulation, workforce development, and a commitment to diversification,” she said. “The more we invest in making our communities vibrant and economically strong, the more we attract those who wish to invest in us.”

Smith expressed gratitude to Premier Natalio Wheatley for entrusting her with this role, making it clear that for her, this is about service—not personal ambition.

“Now is the time for leadership, unity, and service above self. Together, let us secure the future of the Virgin Islands,” she concluded.

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Hon. Lorna G. Smith, OBE, has been appointed as the Virgin Islands’ first Minister of State for Financial Services and Economic Development, marking her return to government after her dismissal in October 2024. The announcement was made by Premier Hon. Natalio Wheatley in a special statement, stressed the need for experienced leadership amid global economic uncertainty.

“These are strange and uncertain times, and we need all hands on deck to manage the global economic headwinds ahead of us,” Premier Wheatley said. “Hon. Smith’s invaluable support during my recent mission to Asia and the international respect she commands in the field of financial services clearly demonstrated that her experience would be best utilized as a member of the Government.”

Smith’s new role comes with significant responsibilities, including oversight of financial services, domestic banking, economic diversification, investment promotion, trade, and consumer affairs. Additionally, she will work closely with foreign governments, international organisations, and stakeholders to ensure the Virgin Islands’ economy remains strong. She will also have direct oversight of the Financial Services Commission, the International Tax Authority, BVI Finance, and the Department of Trade and Investment Promotion.

Smith’s return to government comes just over four months after her abrupt dismissal from her previous role as Deputy Premier and Minister of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade. At the time, Premier Wheatley cited concerns over political stability, stating, “She did not give me the confidence that she would remain with my administration for the duration of this term.”

Her removal was met with speculation about her political future, especially after she denied reports in early February that she was in discussions to rejoin the Virgin Islands Party (VIP). “It is not true. I continue to serve the people of this territory to the best of my ability as an independent member of the Opposition to date,” Smith said at the time.

Despite this, her return to government signals a shift in political dynamics. Premier Wheatley, in his announcement, acknowledged her expertise as a key asset to his administration. “I am personally pleased to have her back and to have her support,” he said, noting that her new position as Minister of State is a senior role, reflecting her experience and reinforcing her authority when dealing with external stakeholders.

As Smith assumes her new responsibilities, Karl Dawson, the outgoing Junior Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, will step down from his ministerial role but continue as Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly. Wheatley praised Dawson for his contributions, stating, “I commend him for his dedication and commitment to our farmers and fisherfolk.”

Smith’s appointment comes at a critical time for the territory as the government navigates economic challenges, including potential global financial shifts and the impact of international tariffs. In light of these concerns, Premier Wheatley emphasised the importance of a strong economic leadership team. “We will work very closely together to ensure consistency and cohesion of government policy,” he said.

With her extensive background in financial services and economic development, Smith is expected to play a pivotal role in steering the Virgin Islands’ economy toward resilience and growth.