Madam Speaker, we live in a geographic location that grants us certain privileges which others must travel or relocate to experience.  Our 60 islands and cays, to which we have ample access, are all surrounded by beautiful white sand.  I also recognise that because sand is so readily available, persons may not just use it for their enjoyment, but also for other purposes and that is what I need to urgently address in this sitting. 

Residents of the Virgin Islands are reminded that in accordance with the Beach Protection Ordinance CAP 233. 1985, it is illegal to carry out sand mining activities at the Territory’s beaches.

The public is notified that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour will be hosting two meetings this week to further discuss the Long Bay, Beef Island Beach Management Plan.

Officers from across the Public Service are attending a workshop on commercial drone policies this week as part of a UK Government funded Darwin Plus Project titled, “Sustainable Sargassum Management”.

Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure to provide this Honourable House with an update on the Whale Stranding event within our waters during the first week of July 2022

The 9th Meeting of the Council of Ministers, Environment Sustainability (COMES) was held in St Vincent and the Grenadines from 31st May to 2nd June 2022 at the Beach Combers Hotel Conference Rooms. Unfortunately, as it was my first month as Minister of Natural Resources & Labour I could not attend in person but had the opportunity to attend virtually and was honored to be present for my first meeting of this extent since receiving this ministerial portfolio.

Minister for Natural Resources and Labour Honourable Melvin M. Turnbull has stated that residents and visitors of the Anegada community should refrain from visiting the conch mounts due to the recent disposal of Shortfin Pilot Whale carcasses that were in the area.

A pleasant good day to all the people of the Virgin Islands.  It is my pleasure to provide you, the public, with an update on the Whale Stranding event within our waters.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour has confirmed that the removal process has begun for the over 50 Shortfin pilot whales that have died on the island of Anegada.