The Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), has expressed commitment to having the longstanding Anegada lands issues, dating back to 1885, be settled as quickly as possible. Photo: VINO/file

During a meeting on constitutional reform held in Anegada on Sunday, June 7, 2026,The Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7),acknowledged the issue and committed to reviewing it promptly. However, he believes that the Crown Lands Management Act is the legislation governing these matters. Photo: Youtube

During a meeting on constitutional reform held at Emile Dunlop Community Centre in Anegada on Sunday, June 7, 2026, residents expressed concerns about longstanding land issues. One resident emphasised that families are dying while waiting for a resolution on these land matters.

Premier Wheatley acknowledged the issue and committed to reviewing it promptly. However, he believes that the Crown Lands Management Act is the legislation governing these matters. 

Committed to getting this issue resolved 

“As it pertains to the claims, I may have to look at that a little bit more closely to understand about the claims a little better. I believe the Crown Lands Management Act does speak to ancestral lands,” he said.

The Premier emphasised the importance of presenting these claims to the Crown Lands Management Board, adding that it is the responsibility of the Crown Lands Management Board to resolve these claims.  

“Those persons who've made applications for either residential or commercial lands to have those settled as quickly as possible,” he stated.

He further remarked,” I wouldn't want us to delay that in examining these claims from, as you said, from 1885, because, let's say, for instance, it gets very complicated. I wouldn't want you to delay getting that Crown land transferred as quickly as possible, but once those claims are presented, I'm sure the Deputy Premier would engage with the board.”

The Premier expressed his willingness to participate in discussions regarding this issue so that he can fully understand the claims and the approach necessary for their resolution.