The people of the Virgin Islands are living longer, with a life-expectancy that is among the highest in the Region.

Public Officers are preparing to celebrate Public Service Week 2015 from May 24 to June 1.

The week, which is held annually, will see government ministries, departments and statutory bodies competing in various activities and sporting events.

The Territory’s leaders, especially those in Government, churches, businesses and the community are being called upon to participate in the 19th BVI National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 7.

The review process is complete for sixty residents on Virgin Gorda to receive lands as part of the Government’s land distribution programme.

The Territory has seen a return to positive economic growth with Government reserves of $44.6 million. The announcement was made by Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE, during his Address to the Territory on May 4.  

A special sitting to hear and determine applications for the issuance of new and renewal of liquor licences will be held at the Magistrate Court at John’s Hole on June 1 at 10:00 a.m.

Mrs. Sheila Brathwaite has been appointed to the post of Complaints Commissioner for one year effective July 1.

The Complaints Commissioner, often called the Ombudsman, offers to the public a channel for raising complaints about maladministration in the public service and statutory bodies. It provides a mechanism to investigate complaints thoroughly and independently and offers an unparalleled ability to get to the heart of any shortcomings within the public sector.

Governor of the Virgin Islands, His Excellency Mr. John S. Duncan, OBE, visited several schools last week as part of efforts to familiarise students on the role and responsibilities of his office.

Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE will give the public a synopsis of the work of the Government of the Virgin Islands from November 2011 to present when he delivers an Address to the Territory on Monday, May 4.

In accordance with Section 37 of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order 2007, Mrs. V. Inez Archibald, Deputy Governor, will act in the Office of the Governor with effect from Saturday, May 2 until Sunday, May 3, and again from Wednesday, May 6 until Sunday, May 10, during the absence of the Governor from the Virgin Islands.