TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands (CMC) – British Virgin Islands (BVI) Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley says several public servants will receive most of their long-outstanding increment payments in time for Christmas, with the remaining balances to be paid in early 2026.

Speaking during a recent press conference, the premier said the payments are meant to bring relief to government workers who have waited years for increments owed to them.

“I’m happy to announce that many public servants will receive most of their outstanding increment payments this Christmas, with the remainder receiving theirs in early 2026,” he said.

The announcement follows years of appeals from public officers and commentators for the settlement of unpaid increments, some dating back several performance cycles. Although partial payments were made in the past, workers have complained that ongoing delays caused financial hardship and hurt morale within the public service.

Increment arrears have been a recurring national issue, raised during budget debates, union meetings and public forums.

The Government previously acknowledged the backlog, citing fiscal and administrative challenges.

According to Wheatley, the move reflects the spirit of the season and added that the Minister of Communications and Works will soon announce another holiday-related government initiative for the wider Virgin Islands community.