The Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency (RDA), working in support of the Government of the Virgin Islands, today, 12 January, signed a contract with Barry’s Electrical Services Ltd. for Design and Installation Services for Generator Connectivity at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital.

The contract signing, for works valued at $845,530.76, marks an important step toward strengthening the electrical resilience and operational continuity of the Territory’s primary healthcare facility.

Under the scope of works, the project involves the decommissioning and removal of two aging generators, alongside the reconfiguration and connection of the Major Peebles Wing and Annex buildings to the existing generator plant at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital. 

Once completed, the project will allow the entire hospital campus to be powered through a unified generator system, improving efficiency, reliability, and emergency readiness.

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley in his remarks said, “My Government continues to prioritize the continued strengthening of our 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.”

Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, noted the importance of the project and expressed confidence in the contractor. “I know the contractor will do a good job. This is a very important project for the BVI Health Services Authority and will ensure all services, particularly dialysis services, continue six days a week by ensuring all buildings are connected to the main generator system.  Early morning calls on power outages will be a thing of the past.”

Chairman of the Board of Directors for the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) Mr. Ron Potter added, “The BVIHSA is implementing several infrastructure projects to upgrade and redevelop our various facilities including the Hospital and various community clinics.  
 

To execute all these projects the BVIHSA entered into an agreement with the RDA to build out our capital infrastructure once financing is secured.  So in that light I thank the RDA for the partnership that ensures our capital projects are completed in a timely and efficient manner.” 

Speaking at the signing ceremony, RDA Chief Executive Officer Mr. Anthony McMaster underscored the collaborative value of the project and its wider benefits for local capacity building.

 “We look forward to this collaboration because it not only helps improve the product, but also builds relationships and expertise across various entities,” Mr. McMaster said. He congratulated the contractor and commended his team — comprised of his sons — noting the significance of generational skills transfer.

“It is encouraging to see Mr. Barry passing the baton and preparing the next generation to take the lead. That fits directly within the sphere of the RDA. The Premier has given us a mandate for capacity building and preparing for the future, so when we see this level of preparation for the youth to take over, it is a commendable step forward.”

Speaking on behalf of the contractor, Managing Director Mr. Ronson Barry expressed appreciation for the opportunity.

“Thank you for giving me this opportunity to spread my wings. Barry’s Electrical Services is best known for work in the private sector, but we have also delivered public sector projects such as the Iris O’Neal Medical Centre with Mr. James Todman, and most recently the Marine Base — both of which were successful. I have no doubt that we will bring that same standard to this project and do a good job.”

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development Ms. Tasha Bertie and Chief Executive Officer of the BVIHSA Dr. June Samuel were also in attendance. 

The project is scheduled for a 20-week duration and represents ongoing collaboration between the Government, the RDA, and key sector partners to enhance critical infrastructure and safeguard essential public services.

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NOTE TO EDITORS:

Highlights from the 12 January, 2026 contract signing ceremony for Design and Installation Services for Generator Connectivity at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital.

For more information contact:

Colene A. Penn
Head of Communication
Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency

T: (284) 440-0040
General Enquiries:  communications@bvirecovery.vg  
Website: www.bvirecovery.vg