Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE is away from the Territory attending the 39th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Jamaica from July 3 to 7.

We are aware of reports of an incident at USVI at the Cyril E King airport this morning.  We are in touch with US Authorities.

Officers from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and Her Majesty’s Prison were recognised and presented with long service medals at the official celebration of the Birthday of Her Majesty the Queen.

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is the recipient of two Armed Response Vehicles (ARV) equipped for the Virgin Islands terrain, specifically for transporting officers of the newly trained and enhanced Armed Response Unit.

I wanted to update you on the independent investigation undertaken by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force into the actions taken by officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force Immediate Response Team during the apprehension of escaped prisoner Santo Yamarco Hernandez in early December.

The public is invited to view the joint press conference between His Excellency the Governor Augustus Jaspert and the Premier of the Virgin Islands. Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE on the topic of Security.  

Good afternoon members of the Press. I would like to update you on two matters:

First being that last night, I attended a reception in Puerto Rico for the Puerto Ricans who did so much to help us.

"I was devastated to hear that another young life has been taken in a senseless act last night."

The first responsibility of any Government is to protect its citizens, and provide a safe place for its children, families and residents to live, work and visit.

When I first arrived in these islands, I was struck by the sheer natural beauty, engaging people and the peace and tranquility that have given these islands the name of Nature’s Little Secrets.  While the Virgin Islands are of course well known in business, international finance and tourism across the world, what struck me also were the stories of how people felt safe here; and how important that is.  A sense of calm and safety to walk in the early and late mornings, have family outings and some who even slept with windows and doors ajar to take in natural breezes.