BVI News

Archive for October, 2026

Gaming and Betting Commission set for 2027

Gaming and Betting Commission set for 2027

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has announced plans to launch the BVI’s Gaming and Betting Commission in 2027, alongside updated legislation and regulations to govern the sector. Dr Wheatley outlined the proposal in his 2027 Budget Address as part of the […]

by / on October 29, 2026 at 6:07 AM /
Gov’t proposes concessions for first-time villa owners

Gov’t proposes concessions for first-time villa owners

The following is a media release from the BVI Ports Authority. The British Virgin Islands Ports Authority (BVIPA) wishes to advise the travelling public and stakeholders that all international ferry arrivals normally processed at the Road Town Jetty will be […]

by / on October 29, 2026 at 6:00 AM /
Healthcare workers promised phased salary increases

Healthcare workers promised phased salary increases

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has promised phased salary increases for healthcare workers at the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) in 2027, saying his government will address compensation as part of measures to recruit and retain medical professionals. Delivering the 2027 […]

by / on October 28, 2026 at 7:23 AM /
‘Enough about your grandfather,’ Walwyn tells Premier

‘Enough about your grandfather,’ Walwyn tells Premier

A heated exchange erupted in the House of Assembly recently after Sixth District Representative Myron Walwyn interrupted Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley for referencing his grandfather while responding to questions about employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. Walwyn had questioned why […]

by / on October 28, 2026 at 6:31 AM /
Penn: Record budget must deliver more than promises

Penn: Record budget must deliver more than promises

Opposition Leader Marlon Penn has called on the government to turn its record $559.1 million budget into improvements in household finances, essential services and housing, while publishing clear targets and regular progress reports. Responding to the 2027 budget in a […]

by / on October 28, 2026 at 6:20 AM /
Gov’t proposes $5,000 payroll tax rebate

Gov’t proposes $5,000 payroll tax rebate

The government has proposed a $5,000 payroll tax rebate for lower-income earners at the end of 2027, with Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley saying the measure requires Cabinet and House of Assembly approval. Dr Wheatley announced the proposal during his 2027 […]

by / on October 28, 2026 at 6:12 AM /
UK Conservatives demand better treatment for OTs

UK Conservatives demand better treatment for OTs

A UK-based Conservative group is calling for sweeping changes to how Britain treats its Overseas Territories, including the BVI, arguing that they deserve greater representation, stronger constitutional protections and more respect for their elected governments. Conservative Friends of the Overseas […]

by / on October 28, 2026 at 6:06 AM /
Premier announces record $559M budget for 2027

Premier announces record $559M budget for 2027

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has proposed a $559.1 million budget for 2027, with the largest ministry allocation going to communications and works. Presenting the budget address in the House of Assembly on Tuesday, Dr Wheatley said the proposal included $460.4 […]

by / on October 27, 2026 at 1:45 PM /
Bad hospital experiences dominate social media — Wheatley

Bad hospital experiences dominate social media — Wheatley

Health Minister Vincent Wheatley has expressed concern that negative experiences at the Dr D Orlando Smith Hospital receive widespread attention on social media, while positive accounts of patient care often go unreported. Speaking on the Virgin Islands Voice programme recently, […]

by / on October 27, 2026 at 7:21 AM /
Dr Wheatley is professor, not Premier material — Cline

Dr Wheatley is professor, not Premier material — Cline

Prominent National Democratic Party (NDP) member Bishop John Cline has questioned Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley’s leadership credentials, arguing that his academic background did not adequately prepare him to govern the Virgin Islands. Several members of the public have blamed the […]

by / on October 27, 2026 at 6:30 AM /