Mr. Joseph Smith-Abbot and Ms. Tasha Bertie have been confirmed as Permanent Secretaries within the Ministries of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development and the Ministry of Health and Social Development, respectively.

Their appointments were confirmed having served in an acting capacity and is in accordance with Section 24 (1) of the Service Commission Regulations.

As Permanent Secretaries, Mr. Smith-Abbot and Ms. Bertie are responsible for guiding the day-to-day delivery of their ministry’s work and ensure the advancement of the Minister’s legislative and policy agenda.

Deputy Governor, Mr. David D. Archer, Jr said the confirmation of the posts is representative of their steadfast commitment to the critical work of the Public Service.

Mr. Archer Jr stated, “As Acting Senior Managers, they have provided valuable leadership that has shaped the future of their ministries. As Deputy Governor, I have witnessed their exceptional dedication and performance during their Acting Appointments and I am confident that they will continue to deliver great results as confirmed Permanent Secretaries in the Public Service.”

Permanent Secretary, Mr. Joseph Smith-Abbott boasts a wealth of experience in administration, strategic planning and leadership within the Public Service. He has served as a Deputy Director and Director of the National Parks Trust, Deputy Secretary and Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and as Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism Culture and Sustainable Development, following its formation.

 “I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the new Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development in this capacity,” Mr. Smith Abbot said. He added, “The portfolios represent critical components to the Territory’s success and sustainability, to which I pledge my unwavering commitment.”

Mr. Smith Abbott holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science in Botany from the University of Wisconsin, along with various certifications in management through the Chartered Management Institute.

Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development Ms. Tasha Bertie, said she is truly honoured to serve in the role of Permanent Secretary in the ministry, having had several opportunities to act in the role previously.

Ms. Tasha Bertie said, “While I recognise this appointment comes at a critical juncture in the life of the health care system of this Territory, I remain committed to our mission of ensuring that we forge and build a compassionate and cohesive system of health and social services, that truly enhances human development and elevates the quality of life for all in the Virgin Islands.”

Ms. Bertie added, “Our focus on essential public health functions—ranging from health promotion and surveillance to risk control—coupled with robust social protection initiatives for our most vulnerable populations, underscores our dedication to fostering an environment where every individual can thrive.”

PS Bertie hold a Bachelors in Behavioural Science (Psychology) and an Associates Degree in Business Administration from Andrews University as well as an Executive Diploma in Management from the Chartered Management Institute. She began her career in the Public Service as a Guidance Counsellor within the Department of Education, and then moved into the Ministry of Education to serve as Private Secretary and Assistant Secretary. She later transitioned to the Ministry of Health and Social Development in 2013 in the role of Deputy Secretary, where she has also acted as Permanent Secretary on several occasions.

The confirmation of the two Permanent Secretaries is in line with the Government of the Virgin Islands’ commitment to building leadership capacity within the Public Service and among Virgin Islanders as outlined in the National Sustainable Development Plan.