U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – During today’s Government House press briefing, Communications Director Richard Motta Jr., joined by VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen and VIPD Deputy Chief Rael Donastorg, shared important updates on emergency preparedness, tax refunds, and safety for the upcoming Carnival festivities. The briefing also reflected on the legacy of His Holiness Pope Francis and celebrated a major victory for a young Virgin Islands athlete.
Remembering a Global Spiritual Leader
On behalf of Governor Albert Bryan Jr., Director Motta led the briefing by offering heartfelt condolences on the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.
“Pope Francis was a moral compass and a humble servant whose message of mercy, justice, and compassion resonated around the globe,” said Motta. “Here in the Virgin Islands, where faith and community are central to our way of life, he held a special place in many hearts.”
Governor Bryan extended his sympathies to Catholics throughout the territory and the world, encouraging Virgin Islanders to carry forward Pope Francis’ values of compassion, humility, and justice.
Text-to-911 Now Available in the USVI
VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen announced the official launch of Text-to-911 services in the U.S. Virgin Islands, a major advancement in public safety.
“This new feature is especially vital for our deaf and hard of hearing community, and for anyone who may be in a situation where speaking out loud is not possible,” Jaschen said.
Text-to-911 is now available across the territory through Viya, Liberty, and T-Mobile. Residents are reminded to use this service only in emergencies when a voice call is not safe or possible. For full FAQs and details, visit vitema.gov
Hurricane Season & Curfew Passes
With hurricane season starting June 1, Jaschen reminded businesses classified as essential to submit curfew pass applications immediately. The deadline is June 1, and late submissions will face delays. Once a storm is named and the USVI is in its path, curfew passes will no longer be issued. Residents were also urged to sign up for Alert VI, the territory’s emergency alert system, to receive updates during storm events.
Over 3,100 Tax Refunds Headed to Residents
In line with Governor Bryan’s pledge to provide efficient government service, more than 3,119 income tax refunds will be distributed this week to residents who filed their tax returns by July 28, 2023.
“These refunds come at a crucial time for many families,” said Motta. “They will help support essential needs and bring some relief amid rising costs.”
Carnival Safety Tips from VIPD
With Carnival just around the corner, VIPD Deputy Chief Rael Donastorg offered key public safety reminders:
• Observe parking restrictions and designated traffic patterns.
• Monitor unaccompanied minors.
• Keep the Carnival Village clean – no glass bottles allowed.
• Drone patrols will assist officers in crowd monitoring and public safety.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to celebrate responsibly and help maintain a fun, family-friendly environment.
Michelle Smith Wins Gold at CARIFTA Games
The briefing ended on a celebratory note with congratulations extended to St. Croix native Michelle Smith, who won gold in the 400m hurdles at the CARIFTA Games in Trinidad and Tobago.
“Michelle’s incredible achievement—her fourth consecutive gold—makes all of us in the Virgin Islands proud,” said Motta. “She is a shining example of what dedication and talent can achieve.”
The Bryan Roach administration remains focused on financial accountability and strategic problem solving as it continues to address legacy issues and strengthen the Virgin Islands’ long term fiscal health.
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