Deputy Premier and Minister for Education, Culture, Youth Affairs, Fisheries and Agriculture, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley has said that the organisation of sports in the Territory is expected to be revolutionised with the introduction of the Virgin Islands National Sports Council Bill to the House of Assembly.

Honourable Wheatley said, “There will be sports calendars, budgets for sports throughout the year and a greater level of organisation of the different associations. This is something to look forward to that we will get to, early in the session.” 

The Bill was announced during First Sitting of the Third Session of the Fourth House of Assembly on Thursday, November 5, when His Excellency the Governor, Augustus J.U. Jaspert delivered the Speech from the Throne outlining the Government of the Virgin Island’s Legislative Agenda.

Governor Jaspert said, ”Local sportsmen and sportswomen have been performing remarkably well on the international stage in recent years, raising the profile of the Territory and inspiring us with their achievements.

He added, “Our Government recognises that our current and aspiring athletes deserve support and an enabling environment to help them realise their potential. The introduction of the Virgin Islands National Sports Council Bill to provide for the establishment of a National Sports Council is in the early stages of stakeholder consultation. It is anticipated that a draft Bill will be before this Honourable House during the latter part of 2021.”

The Speech from the Throne is delivered at the beginning of each new session of the House of Assembly and is prepared within the Premier’s Office in consultation with ministries. The speech is deliberated and approved by the elected Government of the Virgin Islands, and delivered to the Governor. During the First Sitting of the House of Assembly, the Premier and Minister of Finance, then moves a motion to invite the Governor to read the Speech from the Throne. The Government’s Legislative Agenda is monitored by the Premier’s Office to ensure that it moves forward with fortitude and determination.

To read the full Speech from the Throne – “Driving BVI Innovation through Legislation” click here: https://bvi.gov.vg/media-centre/speech-throne-driving-bvi-innovation-through-legislation