Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Hon Julian Fraser, RA (R3) has encouraged residents to tune in for the State of the Territory Address on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. Photo: Facebook

Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) will give an update on the Virgin Islands Climate Trust Fund which was launched in April 2026, during the State of the Territory Address on June 9, 2026. Photo: VICCTF

Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) will also speak on crown lands during the State of the Territory Address on June 9, 2026. Photo: Internet Source

The address, to be delivered by Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) will update on developments in the Virgin Islands (VI). 

Hon Fraser said among matters as it relates to his ministry, which the Premier will highlight during the address is the environment with particular focus on the “global phenomenon”, climate change.

“You will hear about the developments taking place with the Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund, how it is navigating the hurdles, both locally and internationally, necessary for its proper functioning. And most importantly, the role this fund is charged to play in the mitigation against climate related disasters.”

The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund (VICCTF) was finally launched on April 21 2026, at the Global Sustainable Islands Summit in Gran Canaria. 

Other matters to be highlighted 

Among other matters to be highlighted by the Premier include the Crown Lands Advisory Board, it’s current status and what this means to the distribution of Crown lands. 

Hon Fraser also revealed that an announcement regarding the National Parks Trust may also be made. 

“You will hear how our National Parks Trust continues to improve our tourism product with specific focus on its work at Spring Bay and The Baths and whether the National Parks Trust is considering expansion to be the best way to meet the challenges of the next 50 years and beyond.”

The Premier will also speak on derelict vessels in the territory and the seabed approval intended to facilitate major developments. 

Hon Fraser added significant advancement to the Environment Policy, along with revisions to the Climate Change Policy and its relationships to the Climate Change Trust Fund, the development of the Biodiversity Policy, and the work of the Town and Country Planning Department to keep the construction industry moving at breakneck speed, will also be mentioned during the State of the Territory Address. 

The State of the Territory address will take place at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park at 4:00 PM, on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.