Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley is away from the Territory attending the Monaco Yacht Show until October 1 and the United Nations Meeting in New York on October 3 and 4.

Honourable Dr. Wheatley will lead a delegation from the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry to the Monaco Yacht Show which is an annual international show dedicated to the world of superyachts.

Premier Wheatley stated, “The BVI is the sailing capital of the world. We are an excellent destination to experience the wonders of the sea. Moreover, we can offer world class services through our Red Ensign Category 1 Shipping Registry. The Monaco Yacht Show allows us the opportunity to promote the benefits of sailing and registering in the BVI.”

While in New York, Premier Wheatley will make a statement to the Fourth Committee (Special Political and Decolonization) at the 78^th Session of the United Nations General Assembly at UN Headquarters.

The Premier’s attendance at these events is to continue to promote the overall socio-economic and political interests of the Virgin Islands.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE, has been appointed to act as Premier and Minister of Finance from September 23 to October 5 while Premier Wheatley is away from the Virgin Islands.  

Honourable Smith’s appointment is in accordance with Section 55 (1) of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007 which states, “If the Premier is expected to be absent from the Virgin Islands for more than forty-eight hours, the Governor shall authorise the Deputy Premier to perform the functions of the office of Premier; and the Governor shall revoke this authority on the return to the Virgin Islands of the Premier.” 

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NOTES TO EDITOR(S):

Photos 1 of 2: Premier of the Virgin Islands, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley

Photos 2 of 2: Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE