Local News
Preparedness Central to Protecting Virgin Islands, Premier Says
Premier Natalio D. Wheatley said disaster preparedness remains critical for small island states as the Virgin Islands faces ongoing risks from hurricanes, earthquakes and other threats, during remarks at a private-public sector disaster management workshop on May 5.
The workshop, hosted by Tropical Shipping in collaboration with the BVI Department of Disaster Management, the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency and the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, brought together regional stakeholders to strengthen preparedness and response efforts.
Premier Wheatley said the territory’s geographic vulnerabilities require coordinated planning and sustained collaboration among government, businesses and communities.
“In small island states like ours, this is not a metaphor — it is lived experience,” he said, referring to the impact of natural disasters on daily life and the economy.
He said building resilience depends on joint efforts across sectors, with the private sector playing a key role in maintaining supply chains and essential services, particularly during emergencies.
The Premier also highlighted logistics as a central component of disaster response, noting that the delivery of relief supplies and restoration of services often determines the pace of recovery.
“When disaster strikes and everything is in shambles … it is logistics that determines how quickly relief supplies reach those in need,” he said.
He said initiatives such as the workshop provide an opportunity to identify practical solutions to challenges faced by small island territories and to strengthen coordination among regional partners.
The session focused on improving preparedness, mitigation and response strategies across the Virgin Islands and the wider Caribbean, with participants expected to develop approaches to address disruptions to infrastructure and communication systems during disasters.


Local News
Motorists Advised of Delays as Sea Cow’s Bay Works Continue
Motorists traveling through Sea Cow’s Bay are being advised to expect temporary traffic delays as upgrades to the water transmission system and ongoing roadworks continue in the area.
The Ministry of Communications and Works said the works include improvements to the water infrastructure as well as the installation of a sub-base along the westbound lane of the Sea Cow’s Bay Road Project.
Drivers are being urged to follow instructions from traffic personnel and to exercise caution while traveling through the construction zone.
The ministry said the works are part of ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure in the area and noted that disruptions are expected during the execution of the project.
Officials apologized for the inconvenience caused and said the measures are necessary to facilitate the completion of the upgrades.


Local News
Focus on Personal Attacks Undermining Political Leadership, Skelton-Cline Says
Political leaders in the Virgin Islands are focusing on personal attacks rather than policy and have failed to present a clear vision for the territory, according to concerns raised by commentator Claude Skelton Cline during the May 5, broadcast of Honestly Speaking with Claude Skelton Cline.
Speaking during a program titled “We Will Not Be Fooled Again Pt. 4,” Skelton Cline said political discourse has become increasingly divisive, with parties and public figures prioritizing criticism of opponents over substantive discussion of national issues.
He questioned whether elected officials have articulated a clear direction for the country, asking listeners to identify any recent statements outlining a national vision.
“Have you heard anybody … articulate what is their vision for this country?” he said.
Skelton Cline also warned residents against supporting leaders based on promises without clear plans, urging greater accountability in political leadership.
He said the focus on partisan conflict has contributed to public dissatisfaction, particularly as residents face economic challenges and concerns about public services.
The remarks come amid ongoing political activity in the territory, with multiple parties and groups positioning themselves ahead of future elections.
Skelton Cline said the electorate should demand more substantive engagement from political leaders and avoid being influenced by rhetoric without policy direction.
Health
Healthcare System Faces Strain Amid Staffing Shortages and Leadership Vacancies
The healthcare system in the Virgin Islands is facing mounting challenges, including leadership vacancies, unpaid workers and staff shortages, according to concerns raised during the May 5, 2026 broadcast of Honestly Speaking with Claude Skelton Cline, titled “We Will Not Be Fooled Again Pt. 4.”
During the program, Claude Skelton Cline said the absence of a confirmed chief executive officer and board leadership has contributed to instability at the BVI Health Services Authority.
He said some healthcare workers, including doctors and nurses, have gone unpaid for extended periods, prompting some to leave the territory for better opportunities.
“We have doctors and nurses … who have not been paid … and they have been pulled away in private hospitals and elsewhere because better compensation packages are being offered,” he said.
He also pointed to vacancies in key governance roles, including the expiration of terms for board members without replacements, raising concerns about oversight and decision-making.
He said the combination of staffing shortages and administrative gaps is affecting the delivery of healthcare services and warned that the system could deteriorate further if the issues are not addressed.
The BVI Health Services Authority manages public healthcare services in the territory, including the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital.
Officials have not publicly responded to the concerns raised.
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