Mather to Lead Relaunched Rated Programme
The government will relaunch the RATED employment and training programme under Territorial At-large Representative Stacy Mather, aiming to strengthen support for unemployed and underemployed residents. Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley outlined funding, past outcomes and planned improvements as the programme expands into new sectors.
The government has confirmed that Territorial At-large Representative Stacy Mather will head the relaunch of the RATED Programme, an initiative designed to give temporary employment, training and skills development to unemployed and underemployed residents across the British Virgin Islands.
Mather, who recently crossed the floor to join the government after nearly three years in opposition, said his move was motivated by a desire to do more for constituents. Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley announced the decision in the House of Assembly, saying Mather’s experience in youth development will be central to the next phase of the programme.
Established to fill periodic labour gaps and boost employability, RATED is administered by the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation. The programme offers short-term placements in government departments, paid apprenticeships with public and private partners, and access to education and training initiatives aimed at creating clearer pathways to long-term work.
Premier Wheatley told the House that $3 million was allocated to RATED in 2025 to cover participant payments, training costs and statutory contributions. Of 419 applications received last year, 318 individuals were assisted: 297 were placed in temporary roadside cleaning roles, 11 secured apprenticeships, and 21 received training; nine participants have since moved into permanent posts within government ministries and departments.
While the Premier said the programme has already delivered tangible benefits, he acknowledged several areas need strengthening. Planned reforms include updating the programme’s mandate, amending policy, enhancing accountability and safety mechanisms, improving financial processes and increasing public outreach and collaboration with stakeholders and private employers.
The government also intends to expand RATED’s sectoral reach beyond public works. Proposed new areas include agriculture, technology, marine services, hospitality, construction, utilities and landscaping to better align placements with participants’ skills and career goals and to address specific labour shortages in both public and private sectors.
RATED will be relaunched under the direction of an advisory body to be headed by Mather. Officials say the revamped programme will offer more tailored support and clearer transition routes into permanent employment, with a focus on building skills among young people and other vulnerable groups.
The government has signalled residents should expect further details as it prepares for the programme’s relaunch.
Primary source: BVI News