Mr Speaker, like many our countries in the world the outbreak of the COVID-19 Coronavirus, has severely impacted the economy of the British Virgin Islands. 

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is inviting the public to an information session for the Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP) on June 23 on Virgin Gorda at 5:30 p.m.

The Government of the Virgin Islands along with other agencies and individuals will provide over 300 grants to persons who require financial assistance to participate in the Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP).

As a Territory, we continue the phased and controlled reopening of our borders, only at the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport. Since June 2, under this phase, we have been welcoming home our nationals, Belongers, holders of permanent residence, and naturalised citizens of the Virgin Islands.

A flight carrying vital laboratory equipment, testing kits, five ventilators, six inflatable isolation wards and hospital beds arrived in the Territory on May 12.

The BVI Health Services Authority has launched an ‘Airmid’ phone application to allow patients to receive virtual healthcare in response to COVID-19.

Residents of the Virgin Islands are reminded that they are to stay at home during the 24-hour curfew for seven (7) more days until April 26 to reduce the spread of the coronavirus COVID-19. 

Persons in need are urged to call the dedicated Essential Supplies Hotline at 852-7688 to access basic food packages between the hours of 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie said that the 24 hour curfew will be extended due to the recent death of a suspected COVID-19 resident of the Virgin Islands.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to be allowed to issue this statement regarding the ongoing response in the BVI to pandemic corona virus (COVID-19).