Virgin Islands Public Service Records Improvement in
The Virgin Islands Public Service has demonstrated significant progress in emergency preparedness, securing a 74% score in the 2025 Rapid Readiness Assessment, an 8% increase from the previous year. This achievement underscores the territory's enhanced resilience and proactive stance towards hazard impacts, with notable improvements in communication, planning, and staff awareness.
In a notable advancement towards bolstering the territory's resilience against natural disasters, the Virgin Islands Public Service has marked a commendable 74 percent score in the 2025 Rapid Readiness Assessment. This reflects an 8% improvement from the 66 percent score attained in 2024, underscoring a heightened state of preparedness for potential hazard impacts.
The annual evaluation is essential for assessing the public service’s ability to maintain critical operations and protect resources during emergencies. The Office of the Deputy Governor, responsible for overseeing the assessment, attributes this progress to strengthened systems across all ministries and departments.
Permanent Secretary Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome, MBE, in collaboration with the Department of Disaster Management, has been instrumental in this achievement. Their joint efforts have been focused on equipping ministries with the necessary tools for effective response, prioritizing the well-being of staff members, and ensuring the continuous protection of systems and individuals within the Virgin Islands. "These readiness assessments give us a clear understanding of where we are as an organization prior to the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season.
It allows us to get clear data that then informs decisions that are necessary," stated DaBreo-Lettsome. Significant improvements were noted in the areas of communication, staff awareness, planning, and the safeguarding of important documents. Ministries have been diligent in keeping contact lists updated, devising comprehensive disaster response plans, and participating in national exercises, thereby enhancing the territory's overall preparedness.
The commendable performance during this hurricane season was ascribed to early planning and heightened awareness. Furthermore, the Office of the Deputy Governor and the Department of Disaster Management have reaffirmed their commitment to addressing any shortcomings identified in the assessment.
This pledge is part of a broader government initiative to bolster the public service’s preparedness for hazard impacts, ensuring the safety and well-being of the Virgin Islands community throughout the Atlantic Hurricane Season and beyond. This development not only highlights the Virgin Islands' dedication to strengthening its emergency response capabilities but also showcases a proactive approach to disaster management and resilience.
As the territory continues to face the challenges posed by natural disasters, the improvements in readiness assessments serve as a beacon of progress, signaling a more resilient future.
Primary source: JTV