Premier Rebuts Opposition Over 2026 Budget
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley defended the territory’s largest-ever $550m-plus budget against opposition criticism, saying it prioritises social support, jobs and food affordability. He highlighted measures including a transitional home, higher social assistance, pension and minimum wage increases, and a regulated basket of goods starting December 1.
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has dismissed Opposition Leader Myron Walwyn’s criticism of the 2026 budget, saying the government has responded to pressing social and economic needs across the Virgin Islands. Speaking at a government press briefing after presenting the territory’s largest-ever budget of more than $550 million (with projected revenue collections of over $446 million), Dr Wheatley called Walwyn’s description of the spending plan as “all froth and no maubi” politically motivated and lacking factual basis. "I am obligated to the people of the Virgin Islands to set the record straight with facts, not emotions," he said.
Dr Wheatley outlined components of the budget aimed at helping vulnerable residents. The plan includes a $1.8 million allocation to build a transitional home in Long Look for people experiencing homelessness and related challenges, and increases to social assistance grants for the elderly, people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups.
To ease the cost-of-living pressures many residents face, the government has built in pension increases and a higher minimum wage. Officials are also rolling out a regulated basket of goods to secure affordable food for the most vulnerable; the mechanism was finalised last week and Customs requirements for clearance of those baskets will begin on December 1.
Job creation and workforce development are central to the administration’s pitch. The Premier defended the RATED programme, which he said provided jobs for close to 300 people in 2025 and will be expanded to include apprenticeships, technical training, and soft skills to help participants transition into the mainstream workforce.
Agriculture and fisheries funding features in the budget as part of efforts to boost local food production. Dr Wheatley announced $2 million for new infrastructure and land purchases to support farmers, including $1 million set aside specifically for buying more farmland, and repeated the government’s intention to pass an agriculture grant policy this year.
The Premier acknowledged the territory’s recent fiscal challenges, including a $20 million shortfall in 2025 caused by a miscalculation in public servants’ salary allocations that prompted an internal investigation, but said the 2026 plan — themed Building a Sustainable Nation — reflects months of fiscal review.
Dr Wheatley said the government will continue to highlight portions of the budget in the coming weeks so residents can better understand how funds will be used and the expected benefits for the community.
Primary source: BVI News