The Virgin Islands Public Service scored an average of 74 percent on the 2025 Rapid Readiness Assessment, an increase from 66 percent in 2024, signaling improvements in preparedness ahead of potential hazard impacts.
The assessment, conducted annually, measures the public service’s ability to maintain critical functions and protect resources during emergencies. According to the Office of the Deputy Governor, this year’s score reflects strengthened systems across ministries and departments.
Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome said her office worked with the Department of Disaster Management to ensure ministries had the tools to respond effectively. “These readiness assessments give us a clear understanding of where we are as an organisation prior to the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season,” DaBreo-Lettsome said. “It allows us to get clear data that then informs decisions that are necessary to ensure the continuous protection of systems and individuals.”
The assessment identified progress in communication systems, staff awareness, planning, and document protection. Ministries maintained up-to-date contact lists, developed disaster response plans, and increased participation in national exercises.
DaBreo-Lettsome noted that the public service has so far managed well through this hurricane season, attributing the outcome to early planning and awareness.
The Office of the Deputy Governor and the Department of Disaster Management said they will continue to provide support to address gaps highlighted by the assessment.
The government said it remains committed to strengthening the public service’s capacity to respond to hazard impacts during and beyond the Atlantic Hurricane Season.
