Governor Opens Third Session of Assembly
The House of Assembly reconvened on Tuesday 13 January 2026 for the First Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly, marked by the Speech from the Throne delivered by Governor Daniel Pruce under the theme 'Legislative Pillars of Progress: Building a Sustainable Nation.' The Governor highlighted the productivity of the previous session — 25 Bills debated, 21 passed and 18 assented to — and the next sitting is scheduled for 15 January at 4:00 p.m. in Road Town, Tortola.
The House of Assembly of the Virgin Islands opened its proceedings for 2026 on Tuesday, 13 January, with the First Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly following prorogation. His Excellency Governor Daniel Pruce delivered the Speech from the Throne, setting out the session's theme as "Legislative Pillars of Progress: Building a Sustainable Nation." The Speech from the Throne traditionally outlines the government's priorities and legislative agenda for the coming sitting and signals key areas of focus for lawmakers.
Referencing the House's work in 2025, Governor Pruce told members: "Madam Speaker, the Second Session of this Fifth House of Assembly commenced on 7th January, 2025 and continued until 31st December 2025. By all indications, it was a very productive session, as the House deliberated on some 25 Bills, 21 of which were passed and 18 of which have been assented to." The Governor's remarks underline the Assembly's recent legislative momentum and the progression of measures into law.
After the delivery of the Speech, His Excellency declared the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly open. Acting Premier Honourable Julian Fraser tabled documents during the sitting, and the Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye Rymer, also laid papers on the table, signalling that government business across portfolios will feature in the coming weeks.
For residents, the opening of the session points to continued parliamentary activity on matters that may affect public services, infrastructure and governance. The presence of the Minister for Communications and Works among those tabling documents suggests infrastructure and service delivery will remain on the agenda, while the Governor's emphasis on sustainability highlights likely attention to long-term planning.
Members and the public have been reminded that the Second Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly is scheduled for Thursday, 15 January at 4:00 p.m. in the Chamber in Road Town, Tortola. Citizens interested in following proceedings or obtaining documents can refer to the House of Assembly's communications channels and media contacts for further information.
The House of Assembly Public Relations Officer for this release is Giovanni Herbert. For further details, residents may consult official House of Assembly announcements and social channels for updates and documents related to the new session.
Primary source: BVI Government