Local News
Government Announces Successful Transition to New Public Service Salary Structure
The Department of Human Resources in the Virgin Islands has successfully transitioned all 2499 public officers to a new salary structure, meeting the 31st of March deadline set forth by the government.
This marks a step forward in the ongoing efforts to modernise and align the compensation system with industry and international standards.
The journey towards this achievement began with the completion of the Compensation Review and Job Classification report by renowned consultants, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), in October 2023. This comprehensive report, submitted to Cabinet on the 8th of November, 2023, served as the blueprint for the overhaul of the public service salary framework.
Deputy Governor Mr. David D. Archer Jr. expressed his gratitude towards the dedicated public officers and consultants involved in the process. “Public Officers are the backbone of our Territory,” he stated, emphasising the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable compensation for their invaluable contributions.
He further highlighted that no public officer now earns below the living wage, a testament to the government’s dedication to fair remuneration.
During the 2024 Budget Address, Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, announced the allocation of nearly $10 Million in the budget to facilitate the implementation of the new salary structure. This financial commitment underscores the government’s resolve to prioritise the welfare of its public servants.
The transition to the new salary structure was not without its challenges, but the Office of the Deputy Governor, led by Permanent Secretary Mrs. Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome, ensured a smooth and timely conversion process. Mrs. DaBreo-Lettsome praised the collaborative efforts of the Department of Human Resources and Public Service associations in achieving this milestone.
Looking ahead, the government plans to introduce a revamped allowances and benefits schedule for public officers starting the 15th of April. This initiative aims to streamline compensation distribution and further enhance the working conditions for public servants.
Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut
