Some of the persons present at the contract signing ceremony on January 12, 2026. The contract with Barry’s Electrical Services Limited is to reconfigure the Old Peebles Hospital and Annex to the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital’s generator plant. Photo: GIS

Premier Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), left, signed the contract with local electrical company, Barry’s Electrical Services Ltd, on Monday, January 12, 2026. Photo: GIS

The contract focuses on upgrading the territory's healthcare infrastructure by reconfiguring the Old Peebles Hospital and Annex to connect to the generator plant at Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital. Photo: VINO/ File

This commitment was further demonstrated when Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) signed a contract with local electrical company Barry’s Electrical Services Limited on Monday, January 12, 2026. The contract focuses on upgrading the territory's healthcare infrastructure by reconfiguring the Old Peebles Hospital and Annex to connect to the generator plant at Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital.

'Commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure'

According to a Facebook post by the Office of the Premier, "This signing marks a pivotal step toward more reliable power and improved patient care, with Barry’s Electrical Services Ltd. delivering the project under the Recovery and Development Agency."

During the signing ceremony, Premier Wheatley emphasised his government's commitment to strengthening the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. 

"This morning, we take another step forward with a project that is guaranteed to enhance the reliability and overall quality of service at our main public hospital. The contract that we are signing this morning is for the decommissioning and removal of two ageing generators, alongside the reconfiguration and connection of the old Peebles Hospital and Annex Buildings to the existing generator plant at the Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital."

Technical challenges resolved

The Premier noted that while there were hopes to complete the work by the end of 2025, technical challenges delayed progress; however, he reassured the public that these issues have been resolved, allowing work to commence now.

"This essential upgrade will ensure reliable power and continue patient care, which is important for the health and well-being of the people of the Virgin Islands. My government recognises that a world-class hospital is the foundation of a healthy, thriving society. The upgrades that we have prioritised over the past several months and those that we intend to undertake in the future reflect our dedication to ensuring that our healthcare institutions are equipped to serve everyone with excellence," he added.

Work to remain on schedule

He commended Barry’s Electrical Services Ltd for meeting the necessary requirements and being selected for this important project. 

Additionally, the Premier assured the people of the Virgin Islands that the works would remain on schedule. "I am certain that the projects will be delivered on time, within budget, and with the highest standards of quality, as we have come to expect, both from the Recovery and Development Agency and Barry’s Electrical Services."

He also praised local contractors for consistently meeting international standards, stating, "Time and time again, our local contractors continue to demonstrate that they have the ability to deliver high-quality work, and this gives us confidence that our people are very much capable of leading the present and future generation and development of our Virgin Islands."