You would recall that shortly after the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 as a global pandemic in March 2020, we in the BVI were presented with a grim projection – based on the scientific data - that unless decisive preventative steps were taken, the Territory was looking at getting 3,700 coronavirus cases in our small population.

I extend morning Greetings to all here in the BVI, the Region and the World.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to accelerate, and we are deeply saddened by its rising death toll as health systems and economies far and near buckle under the strain of second and third waves of infection.

Mister Speaker, the region of the Americas and the other Caribbean Islands and territories join the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and partners in celebrating the 19^th Annual Vaccination Week in the Americas (VWA) that this week began on April 24 and will end on April 30.

Mister Speaker, thank you for this opportunity to say a few words in celebration of the over 10,000 residents of the Virgin Islands that have heeded the call to be vaccinated against the deadly virus that causes COVID-19.

Mister Speaker, throughout this pandemic, the people of the Virgin Islands have time and time again shown their resilience.

The HEOC [Health Emergency Operation Centre] presented an update on the COVID-19 situation, including vaccination coverage, along with various considerations for modifying the border entry requirements for travelers who have been fully vaccinated.

Together, through and with the Grace of God, we continue to move forward with a clear plan of action that involves balancing lives and livelihoods in this era shaped by the COVID-19 global pandemic.

I extend greetings to everyone in the Virgin Islands and to those joining us by radio, TV and other social media platforms. 

Today as Minister of Health, I will give an update of COVID-19 test results; the receipt and administration of additional AstraZeneca vaccines; the decision of Cabinet to reduce crowd sizes for all events, and the strong, very strong advice to consider the cancellation of this weekend's group or crowd activities and to observe ALL HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS.

The Ministry of Health is notifying the public that a person who tested positive for COVID-19 attended the funeral held on March 27th, 2021 at the Sea Cow’s Bay Methodist Church.