In a significant development that underscores the British Virgin Islands' (BVI) commitment to becoming a leading force in the global digital finance arena, Deputy Premier Lorna Smith of the Ministry of Financial Services, Labour and Trade made a compelling statement on March 15th. Smith emphasized the territory's strategic vision and efforts towards establishing itself as a global digital assets hub, showcasing the BVI's proactive approach to embracing the opportunities presented by ...

In a significant update from the British Virgin Islands' International Tax Authority (ITA) on February 5, 2024, the tax landscape for cross-border financial information sharing has expanded. The ITA announced the inclusion of new jurisdictions in its Common Reporting Standards (CRS) lists, marking a pivotal step in the BVI's commitment to global tax transparency and compliance.The CRS, a brainchild of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), serves as the corner...

In a proactive measure to enhance tsunami preparedness, the Department of Disaster Management (DDM) of the Virgin Islands is extending an invitation to its residents to partake in the upcoming Caribe Wave 2024 exercise. Scheduled for March 21, this regional drill is a critical part of the islands’ comprehensive strategy to improve tsunami readiness and response capabilities.The significance of this exercise has been further underscored by the devastating eruption of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga H...

The telltale signs are there.  Othello the Moor (Shakespeare) surfaces. He saw what he believed to have been evidence that condemned his wife as unfaithful and he acted upon them.  And, too late, after Desdemona was dead, he realized that it was a carefully laid plot to destroy him.Scholars often remark in disgust: ‘He could have asked!!’Well, BVI is asking.What are we to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland?We admit we are not kit and kin because we hav...

In a significant turn of events, Jamaican dancehall artist Vybz Kartel, born Adidja Palmer, has had his murder conviction overturned, marking a dramatic shift in a legal saga that has captivated not only Jamaica but fans worldwide. The 48-year-old artist, known for his major hits like "Clarks," "Ramping Shop," and "Summer Time," was originally sentenced to life in prison in 2014, with a minimum of 35 years to be served, later reduced to 32-and-a-half years, for the ...

In a nerve-wracking incident on the evening of Wednesday, March 13, 2024, passengers aboard InterCaribbean Airways Flight JY634 experienced a harrowing return to Antigua after their aircraft encountered a critical engine failure shortly after takeoff. The flight, originating from Antigua and destined for Beef Island in the British Virgin Islands, was carrying a diverse group of passengers, including British Virgin Islanders, Belongers, residents, and tourists.Approximately five minutes into the ...

In the heart of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), a significant cultural dilemma emerges, casting a long shadow over a deeply rooted tradition that has united communities for countless generations. The ongoing dispute at Ellis Thomas Downs, a pivotal venue for horse racing in the BVI, poses a threat to the future of this sport, which is intricately woven into the islands' cultural fabric and identity. With the traditional August Tuesday Festival Horse Race approaching, the Virgin Islands com...

In an inspiring event this past Friday, the Grade 5 students of Ebenezer Thomas Primary School in the Virgin Islands took their learning experience to an extraordinary level. Nineteen young scholars, under the guidance of their teacher, Candia McFarlane, participated in a Special Sitting of the House of Assembly, showcasing not only their understanding of governance but also their vision for the future of their territory.The students, each acting as the newly elected Premier of the Virgin Island...

In a profound shock to the British Virgin Islands, the legal and wider community mourns the untimely death of Jamal S. Smith, a preeminent attorney and public servant, whose life was tragically cut short in a suspected act of homicide on March 12, 2024. Smith, a towering figure in the legal profession, was found deceased in his Manuel Hill residence, sending ripples of grief and disbelief across the territory and beyond.Jamal S. Smith, the visionary founder and principal of THORNTON SMITH, was c...

Early reports reaching our newsroom indicate that prominent attorney and former head of the Labour Tribunal Jamal Smith was found dead in his Duff’s Bottom home just a short while ago. Reports are yet to be fully confirmed but we understand that this is a homicide and police are still on the scene. The revelation has shocked the Territory and thrown many into deep concern and mourning.We will bring you further updates as this tragedy unfolds.We extend our deepest condolences to M...

Phew! It's a relief that nobody lost their lives during what turned out to be an unexpected test on Friday in Tortola. Kudos to everyone involved for averting what could have been a disastrous situation. However, the events that unfolded during the drill underscore a critical need for better communication and coordination in emergency preparedness exercises.

As the Caribbean Community (Caricom) evolves, member states and territories grapple with the complexities of deeper integration, particularly concerning the free movement of people. The British Virgin Islands (BVI), currently an associate member, stands at a crossroads, deliberating the potential shift to full membership with cautious consideration of this policy.The BVI’s Stance: A Delicate BalancePremier Natalio Wheatley's recent statements underscore a nuanced position: recognizing ...

The Catch a Fire Reggae Festival in Soweto, South Africa, recently became the stage for an unforgettable performance by the Virgin Islands' beloved reggae star, Pressure Busspipe, now warmly embraced with the Zulu name Bongani, meaning “one who is grateful.” This reggae sensation, renowned for hits like "Virgin Islands Nice," "Lion is a Lion," "Jah Love," "Reset & Restore," and "Show Love," has been welcomed with open arms int...

In a disturbing development from the serene waters of the Caribbean, the international and local communities have been shaken by the actions of three escaped prisoners from Grenada. The suspects, now facing a slew of serious charges, are accused of hijacking a catamaran and the resulting presumed murder of a U.S. couple, casting a shadow over the region known for its paradisiacal allure and vibrant sailing culture.The individuals in question, Ron Mitchell, a 30-year-old with a background in sail...

Road Town, Tortola – The vibrant energy of BVI Arts' production of "Bugsy Malone" engulfed The Moonstone Nightclub this Sunday at 11 AM, transforming the historic Noel Lloyd Building on Flemming Street into a bustling hub of theatrical talent and community spirit. As a first-time visitor to the Moonstone, the venue's sleek, modern-industrial charm offered a striking backdrop to a performance that was anything but ordinary.An Array of Talent on DisplayThe cast, comprised e...

ReportThe communities of Cane Garden Bay and the Challwell area in the Virgin Islands UK are abuzz with the intriguing mystery of tagged racing pigeons that have recently made unexpected appearances. These pigeons, each bearing unique tags, have sparked a wave of curiosity and brought the local population together in a shared quest for answers.An Enigmatic BeginningIt all started when a racing pigeon, sporting a distinctive combination of gray, black, and white feathers and tagged with a green a...

Great news for the Virgin Islands and environmental enthusiasts: The government of Trinidad and Tobago has successfully halted the oil leak from a barge that capsized off Tobago's coast, initially carrying up to 35,000 barrels of fuel oil. This achievement marks a significant victory for regional environmental protection efforts and mitigates potential risks to the Virgin Islands’ cherished marine and coastal ecosystems.The spill, which had posed a considerable threat to the marine bio...

In a significant crackdown on narcotics trafficking within the Caribbean’s azure waters, two individuals from the British Virgin Islands have been sentenced to nearly five years in prison by a federal court for their involvement in a major cocaine smuggling operation. The case, which unfolded near St. Croix, has cast a spotlight on the persistent challenges the region faces in combating the flow of illegal drugs.Emmanuel Tolentino-Lebron, 22, and Shannon John, 37, both hailing from Road To...

In a remarkable display of teamwork and quick response, the Coast Guard and Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR) executed a successful operation to save three individuals from a catamaran in distress near the British Virgin Islands early Thursday morning 7 March.The 33-foot catamaran, named the Quartz, found itself in peril after running aground on the treacherous rocks of Horseshoe Reef, about six nautical miles southeast of Anegada. The incident occurred in the early hours, with the vessel...

In a thrilling display of school spirit and athletic prowess, Flemming House 3 emerged victorious once again in the cheerleading competition at the ESHS Sports Day, while Carlise House secured the coveted title in track and field events after a 12-year drought.The culmination of days of preliminary events and weeks of intense preparation, the ESHS Sports Day on March 8th showcased the talents and dedication of students from various houses. Dressed in their signature colors of Red, White, and Bla...