ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI — A recent exchange involving Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE, on the Talking Points programme has renewed attention on the title of Junior Minister, the authority attached to the position and the Government’s earlier proposal to elevate the designation to Minister of State.The issue is particularly noteworthy because Smith is one of two Junior Ministers currently serving in the Virgin Islands Government.During the programme, host Dameon Grange addressed Smith by her offi...

ROAD TOWN, Tortola — The Restorative Justice & Pathways Conference 2026 is officially underway, bringing together more than 130 public officers for two days of learning, dialogue and collaboration focused on restorative justice and social reform.The conference has also attracted 12 international experts from across the world, who are sharing their knowledge, experiences and perspectives on restorative approaches, justice reform and the development of practical pathways for positive social chang...

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS — Hollywood actress and Beauty in Black star Crystle Stewart brought international star power to the British Virgin Islands as Celebrity Host of the 16th Annual Summer Sizzle BVI, the Caribbean’s premier fashion and lifestyle destination experience.Stewart’s appearance in the Territory came shortly after the August 26 release of Season 3 of Netflix’s hit series Beauty in Black. During her visit, she marked the highly anticipated new season with an exclusive fashion edi...

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS — Five young Virgin Islanders are preparing to represent the Territory on the international stage as Team BVI travels to Incheon, Republic of Korea, for the 2026 FIRST Global Challenge.The team comprises Christopher Robinson, Nicholas Joseph, Stephon Jainauth, Caleb Stoutt and Ricardo Seebaran, who will compete in the international robotics competition from 7 to 10 October. Their participation marks the Virgin Islands’ fourth consecutive year competing in the FIRST Globa...

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS — The Hannah Hill Reservoir has been successfully tested, recommissioned and returned to service, restoring water distribution to consumers in Sea Cows Bay, Palestina and Pock Wood Pond.The reservoir, which has a capacity of approximately 400,000 gallons, underwent rehabilitation and a series of checks before being placed back into operation.Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer thanked residents for their patience and understanding during the peri...

ROAD TOWN, Tortola — Junior Minister for Financial Services and Economic Development Lorna Smith has signalled that she intends to contest the upcoming General Election alongside the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) Government, further clarifying where she stands politically as the Territory’s political landscape continues to take shape.Speaking on Talking Points, Smith said she is “very much with the government,” adding that she works with the administration, supports its efforts and “enjoys wor...

ROAD TOWN, Tortola — The People’s Leadership Movement (PLM), led by businessman and former Government Minister Mark H. Vanterpool, has announced Juan Richard (Hatchett) as its first Territorial At-Large candidate for the upcoming General Election in the Virgin Islands.Richard is the second candidate to be officially introduced by the PLM since the political organisation was established in May. Vanterpool has said the PLM intends to field a full slate of District and At-Large candidates for the...

ROAD TOWN, Tortola, British Virgin Islands — Approximately 40 residents from across the Virgin Islands recently gathered to learn about the uses, benefits and cultural significance of local bush and medicinal plants as the Department of Culture continues its efforts to preserve the Territory’s traditional knowledge and heritage.The cultural education workshop was held on Wednesday, September 23, and facilitated by herbalist Mrs. Arona Fahie Forbes, who guided participants through the tradition...