Madam Speaker, I would like to provide this Honourable House with an update on the issue of beneficial ownership, which is of great importance to our financial services industry and wider economy.

My fellow residents of the Virgin Islands and our dear visitors, it is with deep sadness that I address you.

On December 6, 2015, a privately owned tour-bus was involved in an accident while descending the Cane Garden Bay Hill. 

As your Minister responsible for Health and Social Services in these Virgin Islands, I must inform you that diabetes is one of the most common and costly health challenges facing the Territory today.  

The Island Resources Foundation has a long and rich tradition of research and advocacy on behalf of Small Island States not only in the Caribbean but throughout the world.  

This World Science Day for Peace and Development comes two months after agreement on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

Madame Speaker, the issue of the influx of Sargassum seaweed being experienced throughout the Territory is a timely and important subject and one that the Government has been paying careful attention to. 

Madame Speaker, at this time, I would like to update this Honourable House on where we are with the issue of transparency as this relates to Beneficial Ownership of Companies.

Madame Speaker, under the Minimum Wage Order made on November 6, 1979, the minimum wage payable for employment in the Territory was set at $10 per day and on 1^st June, 1994 it moved to $3.00 per hour.   

Madam Speaker, November is Tourism Month in the British Virgin Islands and I am extending a special invitation to all Members and residents to participate in the celebrations planned by the BVI Tourist Board.