Category: Press Releases

The Minister for Treasury and Economic Development, Mark Brooks, delivered the 2025/26 budget speech today, 27 May 2025, for St Helena to the Legislative Council. A copy of the budget speech is available online at https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Budget-Speech-2025.pdf.

In his opening remarks, Minister Brooks said:

“It is both an honour and a moment of reflection as I present what will be the final budget under this first ministerial form of government—and my final budget as the Minister responsible for Finance.

Last year, I stood here and emphasised the importance of teamwork across all sectors of our island. This year, I can say with confidence that teamwork is delivering results and I therefore encourage this to continue.

Our shared vision remains steadfast—to empower the people of St Helena to shape their own futures, create their own opportunities, and to do so without leaving anyone behind.

This year, I want to shift the focus slightly—to valuing and investing in our people. Government’s role is to create the conditions for prosperity, not to micromanage it, and together, I believe we have laid the foundation on which the next government can continue to build a strong and sustainable future for all.

Our priority is clear: we aim to create an enabling environment that allows people and businesses to thrive, while preserving what makes St Helena unique.”

The budget includes a 5% increase (£1.7 million), in the Financial Aid settlement from the UK Government when compared to the settlement for 2024/25.  This means total available funding from the UK Government in 2025/26 is £35.79 million.  Additionally, £13.5 million has also been allocated this year for capital expenditure—a substantial investment in the island’s infrastructure.

In his budget speech, Minister Brooks acknowledged what such an uplift in financial aid means in the context of the UK’s own fiscal tightening which he highlighted was “not just generous, I believe it depicts a vote of confidence in the direction of travel St Helena is heading, and the hard but much needed steps we are taking in moving the island forward.”

Together with the £6.65 million BIOT funding received this year, it means that St Helena will receive nearly £56 million support this year—a significant step forward in our journey of transformation. 

In concluding his budget speech, Minister Brooks expressed gratitude to His Majesty’s Government for their ongoing support, to colleagues and the public service for their dedication and hard work, and to the people of St Helena. 

He said:

“Above all, gratitude to the people of St Helena, who continue to show what makes this island truly special.  The spirit, resilience, and pride of our people. And it’s this same spirit that gives me hope for the future.  As we transition to a new government, I believe this budget gives the next Government a strong platform to build on—and a clear sense of direction.  We have challenges ahead, yes—but also real momentum. And most importantly, we have each other.  Let us never forget: what makes St Helena unique is not our isolation, but our unity.”

The motion to consider the Appropriation Bill 2025 now stands adjourned until Thursday, 29 May 2025, when the details of the Bill will be debated by Legislative Council.

Allocations for recurrent expenditure proposed in the Appropriation Bill 2025 and the Budget Book are as follows:

• Central Support Service —£10.8 million
• Attorney General’s Chambers — £0.1 million
• Safety, Security and Home Affairs — £3.0 million
• Judicial Services — £0.1 million
• Treasury — £8.9 million
• Police Operations — £0.9 million
• Economic Development — £5.9 million
• Education, Skills and Employment — £3.9 million
• Health and Social Care — £9.7 million
• Environment, Natural Resources and Planning — £1.7 million

The total amount proposed to be appropriated as recurrent expenditure in 2024/25 is £45.0 million.  In addition, £6.2 million for recurrent expenditure for pensions and benefits will be provided via standing appropriations.

A further £0.6 million for capital expenditure will be provided across the following portfolios:

• Safety, Security and Home Affairs
• Economic Development
• Health and Social Care

#StHelena #Budget25 #AltogetherWealthier

www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/

www.twitter.com/StHelenaGovt

On Saturday, 26 April 2025 at approximately 07:30, the Spanish-flagged fishing vessel, Madre Josefa Uno arrived in St Helena port with a crew member requiring medical attention.

In line with their responsibility to protect St Helena’s Marine Protected Area (MPA), the Marine Compliance and Enforcement Section (MC&ES) used this visit as an opportunity to test the procedure to ensure the vessel’s activities adhered to St Helena’s MPA requirements. 

The vessel was tracked through St Helena’s MPA using Automatic Identification System (AIS), having previously been monitored via satellite surveillance by Blue Belt (BB) through the Marine Management Organisation (MMO). This ongoing surveillance aims to detect any irregular activity within the MPA.

Tracking data showed that the vessel entered the MPA on 25 April 2025 from the east-southeast and departed northbound on 28 April 2025. There were no signs of the vessel stopping or engaging in fishing activity as speed and AIS signals remained consistent throughout. This travel pattern suggested that no fishing gear was deployed, as retrieval would have required the vessel to return along the same route.

To confirm these observations, MC&ES personnel led by Marine Enforcement Officer (MEO) Kelly Jonas, accompanied by Marine Compliance and Enforcement Officer (MC&EO) Peter Young, conducted an informal inspection of the vessel. . During the inspection, the captain of Madre Josefa Uno reported that the vessel had ceased fishing activities on 22 April 2025, whilst operating within the 400m buffer zone of the island. The MEO reviewed the vessel’s fishing logs, which had previously been submitted to the Spanish authorities, confirming that fishing operations concluded on that date with the logs were formally closed upon the vessel’s entry into St Helena’s MPA on 25 April 2025.

The fishing gear and equipment on board the vessel was inspected and found to be dry, indicating it had not been used during the vessels time in St Helena waters. This conclusion was further evidenced by the fishing hold containing only bait and previously caught frozen swordfish, blue shark, and oil fish.

The MC&ES continues to monitor the vessel since leaving St Helena and up to 27 May 2025 tracking data shows that the vessel remains in the northern area of the island approximately 74NM outside of St Helena’s MPA. 

#StHelena #MarineProtectedArea #MarineComplianceandEnforcement

https://www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt

Tweets by StHelenaGovt

SHG

27 May 2025

The St Helena Prison Service wishes to inform the public that, following medical advice and a report in accordance with the Prisons Rules, the Governor, having consulted the Prison Visiting Committee, approved the transfer of a seriously ill, increasingly immobile prisoner currently serving a sentence of imprisonment in HMP Jamestown from that prison to continue his detention at a location where the prisoner’s care needs can be appropriately met.  Whilst there he will continue to serve his sentence. Any form of pardon or reduction of sentence was explicitly dismissed.

Whilst continuing his detention the prisoner will remain under the supervision of the Prison Superintendent and be subject to strict conditions that include preventing him:

• leaving the property;
• accessing the internet;
• accessing alcohol; and
• having visitors other than in accordance with prison rules.

Other restrictions include limiting the rooms in the house the prisoner can use and constraining where the prisoner can go outside the house.

The prisoner will be visited daily by carers and prison staff.  The prison staff visits will be made frequently and at irregular times.  Medical staff are also expected to visit frequently.

Those most affected by the crimes committed by this prisoner have been informed of these arrangements. The location and provision of his detention will remain under review.

The St Helena Prison Service also wishes to advise the public that any unauthorised attempt to contact or approach the prisoner and any breach of detention conditions will be investigated and, if a crime is detected, it will be considered for prosecution.

#StHelena #HMPrison

www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/

www.x.com/StHelenaGovt

The Health and Social Care Portfolio (HSC) is actively monitoring and facilitating a resolution to an ongoing situation regarding the supply of essential medications to the island. Authorities are working diligently with partner agencies to ensure the timely arrival of vital medical supplies for the community.

The recent challenge stems from an unforeseen delay with a large shipment of medical supplies via the regular shipping route from Cape Town. New regulations requiring police clearance and South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) agent approval led to the most recent consignment missing its scheduled voyage after an inspection process. While such inspections are routine, the timing of this particular delay has impacted current stock levels.

The HSC has been in constant communication with its supplier and other relevant stakeholders, exploring all available options to mitigate the situation. Efforts included investigating a chartered flight, which, due to various circumstances, was not feasible this week.

To address the immediate need, plans are in place toairfreight a portion of the necessary medical supplies on scheduled Airlink flights. Due to space requirements, the full consignment may need to be transported in smaller quantities over several flights. This airfreight effort will also include regular cold chain medications that require air transport in accordance with SAHPRA requirements.

St Helena Government (SHG) is fully committed to ensuring that all residents have access to the medications they need. It is anticipated that once the normal sea freight consignments resume, the current issue will be resolved.

Minister for Health and Social Care, Martin Henry, commented:

“We understand the importance of timely access to these medications for the health and well-being of our community. We are all well aware of the physical limitations with the supply chains to St Helena, however the added specific requirements for the export of certain medications is very stringent.

We want to reassure the public that every effort is being made to ensure a steady supply. The HSC are actively working with all parties involved to find a solution and prevent any further potential shortages.  We understand the anxiety this situation may cause and we assure you that we are doing everything in our power to resolve it as quickly as possible.”

We thank you for your understanding and patience during this time.

www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/

www.twitter.com/StHelenaGovt

#StHelena #Health&SocialCare #MedicalSupplies

SHG

23 May 2025

St Helena Government’s (SHG) Consolidated Fund (in other words the principal monies the Government has available to spend) is made up of eight reserves, one of which is the General Reserve (GR).

Unless otherwise required by law all revenue and expenditure generated and incurred by SHG for normal “day to day” government business, is channelled through the GR. SHG’s GR is used for the general purpose of strengthening the financial position of the Government. This includes:

• facilitating capital investments and longer-term recurrent expenditure, which cannot be delivered within a single year’s budget
• delivering statutory payments which must come from the reserves legally
• enabling Government both to meet its expected liabilities and any unexpected liabilities, contingencies, events and emergencies that may arise
• funding the legal costs of litigation claims involving the Government and, as needs be making compensation payments

In July 2021, Executive Council approved the minimum balance for the GR of                £5 million, but the current GR balance is already below that.  This sum was considered to be a prudent amount to ensure the GR could deliver its function of insurance and ideally improve the resilience of SHG finances. Setting an approved minimum balance for the GR is also considered to be good financial management. It sets a commitment to sustainable practices whilst not setting an enforceable constraint.

Currently, the projected budget outturn for the Financial Year ending 2024/2025 is a £0.5 million deficit.  This will reduce the GR balance from £4.5 million at 31 March 2024 to £4.0 million at 31 March 2025 – £1 million less than the recommended minimum balance.   

One of the principal pressures on the GR balance comes from litigation claims being made against the Government. Historic issues have given rise to a number of medical negligence claims, and human rights claims linked to conditions in HM Prison, Jamestown.  If those and other claims result in litigation fees or the Court orders SHG to pay significant compensation, the GR will be completely exhausted.  Should the GR be entirely depleted, St Helena as a whole will face extreme financial vulnerability.

Ministers have tasked officials to explore all possible options for maintaining the GR at prudent levels notwithstanding the claims being made.  Options include seeking loans as well as looking to implement measures to improve the monitoring and control of spending across all government departments. 

The United Kingdom Government (UKG), has made it very clear that it will not provide any additional financial support to St Helena or SHG to cover compensation claims or the costs of litigation.  Technical support is being offered by UKG to help explore alternative funding such as by way of a commercial loan.  This would however place an additional financial burden on the public finances as any loan would need to be serviced and repaid over time.  This would impact on the funds available to provide other essential services in future years.

Chief Minister, Julie Thomas, stated:

“I think it is very important that everyone with an interest in, or love for St Helena knows the pressures our public finances are under.  My Ministers and I believe that we are obligated to make our community aware of SHG’s financial status, so everyone understands the increased financial risk we all face and how depleted our public funds are.   

The immense financial pressure placed on the Government necessarily intensifies the need to scrutinise our current Government expenditure.  We must carefully consider the costs, risks and liabilities of existing policies and projects and any additional policies and projects that are planned for the future. We must do what we can to safeguard the public finances.  This means we must continue to take difficult decisions.

We must keep all SHG provided services and subsidies under continuous review and ensure that if they are maintained, they are maintained sustainably.  This includes setting fees for services appropriately.  It is a grave position to have to operate within.”

In light of the current financial challenges, SHG remains committed to ensuring the continued delivery of essential services to the community, but it is hoped that sharing our current financial position, will help you to understand the restricted financial parameters SHG are required to operate within.

#StHelena #General Reserve

www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/

www.twitter.com/StHelenaGovt

The public are reminded that the deadline to submit applications to amend the register is 16:00 on Friday, 23 May 2025.

If you are eligible (St Helenian Status, ordinarily resident, 17+ years), check the register and submit Form ‘A’ to:

• Add your name
• Amend details (name, address)
• Change Electoral District

Remember: Your name must be on the final register, dated 1 July 2025, to participate in the General Election. There will not be any further opportunities to amend the register ahead of the General Election after 16:00 on Friday 23 May.

Submit completed Forms ‘A’ to:

• Carol Henry: carol.henry@sainthelena.gov.sh
• Anita Legg: anita.legg@sainthelena.gov.sh
• Gillian Francis: gillian.francis@sainthelena.gov.sh
• Connie Johnson: connie.johnson@sainthelena.gov.sh
• or any Assistant Registration Officer (see https://www.sainthelena.gov.sh/government/public-information/elections/)

Offshore residents can use Form ‘B’ available at www.sainthelena.gov.sh/government/public-information/elections/.

#StHelena #ProvisionalRegisterOfElectors #RegisterToVote

www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/
www.twitter.com/StHelenaGovt

As part of the global Darwin 200 voyage, the historic Dutch tall ship Oosterschelde is currently moored in James Bay, bringing with it a world-class initiative aimed at inspiring young people to become the next generation of environmental leaders, explorers, and scientists.

The Maritime Authority currently has an ongoing project to increase capability within the maritime sector on St Helena, helping to promote and reinstate career pathways both at sea and within maritime operations. In joining forces with the St Helena National Trust (SHNT) for this initiative, the Maritime Authority has incorporated the maritime factor into the Oosterschelde visits, school talks, and conservation activities, ensuring that students gain insight into potential careers and the vital role of maritime expertise in environmental stewardship.

As part of this joint initiative, on Wednesday 14 May 2025, schoolchildren were given a unique opportunity to step aboard the Oosterschelde to explore the vessel and meet members of the international Darwin 200 crew, or view the shipvia a boat ride around it. 192 primary school learners went for the ride around the ship and 101 secondary school students went onboard.  48 staff members supported the students.

This immersive visit gave students a chance to learn about traditional sailing, ocean conservation, and the purpose of the Darwin 200 voyage, which retraces the route of Charles Darwin’s historic journey to promote environmental understanding and stewardship in young people across the globe.

To build on this engagement, the Darwin 200 team and crew also visited local schools across the island on Thursday, 15 May, where they delivered inspiring talks and presentations about the expedition, life at sea, and the importance of protecting the planet’s biodiversity.

Spotlight on the Darwin Leaders

As part of the wider Darwin 200 initiative, the project supports the development of Darwin Leaders exceptional young conservationists selected from around the world. These emerging leaders are undertaking scientific research, conservation outreach, and educational activities during the voyage.

The Darwin Leaders on St Helena, Matthew Owen and Jolan Henry, aim to tell St Helena’s story of conservation.  Focusing on the history of St Helena’s environment, where we are today and what the hopes are for the future, centering on the Millennium Forest, seabirds, Wirebird and endemic invertebrates. 

The SHNT is proud to support the Darwin Leaders and believes their presence on the island will be an inspiration to local youth, particularly those with a passion for St Helena’s environment, marine life, and natural heritage.

On Sunday, 18 May, the Darwin Leaders will welcome Tyanne Williams, who will collaborate with the Ascension Island Government’s Conservation Department. During her time there, Tyanne will gain firsthand experience by shadowing the department’s work, with the aim of producing films and reports that highlight Ascension’s ongoing and future conservation endeavours, as well as its past achievements in this crucial area.

Subsequently, the team will embark on the Oosterschelde to Ascension Island.  Whilst on board the Oosterschelde, the Darwin Leaders will have the opportunity to work on a 180-year-old tall ship, participate in bird watching, and BRUV (Baited Remote Underwater Video) and eDNA (environmental DNA) research.  On Ascension Island, the Darwin Leaders will be hosted by the Ascension Island Government Conservation Section, where they will spend three weeks working on different conservation projects, before flying home on 15 June 2025. 

Portfolio Director for Safety, Security and Home Affairs, Alex Mitham, commented:

“This is a rare and exciting opportunity for our young people. Bringing together maritime heritage, environmental science, and real-world adventure that has the potential to ignite a lifelong interest in ocean conservation and exploration.”

The SHNT added:

“The Darwin 200 project aligns perfectly with our mission to promote environmental awareness and connect the younger generation with St Helena’s unique biodiversity and place in global environmental history.”

The visit of the Oosterschelde is not only a celebration of traditional seafaring but also a platform to foster environmental curiosity, responsibility, and international friendship among the island’s youth.

To learn about the Darwin 200 project, visit www.darwin200.com.

Photos

Pilling Primary School learners waiting to board ‘The Enchanted Isle’

Pilling Primary School learners on their way to the ‘Oosterschelde’

St Paul’s Primary School learners circling the ‘Oosterschelde’ aboard the ‘Enchanted Isle’

Harford Primary School learners were lucky enough to also get a visit from a whale shark (Photo courtesy of Lourens Malan)

St Helena Secondary School learners taking turns pulling down one of the sails

A crew member giving a guided tour of the ship

The deck of the ship

The sails of the ship

The bar area

A lounge area, where passengers can relax

Dining Area

#StHelena #Maritime #Darwin200

https://www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt

Tweets by StHelenaGovt

The Education, Skills and Employment (ESE) Portfolio is offering non-compulsory nursery education for all children between the ages of three and four years.

ESE will be in contact with parents/guardians of those children born on island and who are eligible to enter nursery education in the school year September 2025 – August 2026. This is to offer a place and provide details of school placement and date of admission.

It would be appreciated if parents/guardians of children who were not born on St Helena could submit the following information in writing to the Assistant Director of Schools, Kerry Lawrence, so that an offer of placement can be made:

• The child’s full name and date of birth
• Name and address of parent or guardian
• Telephone number and email address (if applicable)

Once all required information has been received, parents/guardians will be advised of their child’s nursery placement.

It should be noted that ideally a child should attend the school within the catchment area where he/she is residing.  However, for non-compulsory schooling, exceptions will only be made for regular attendance outside the identified catchment area should numbers in the requested school be low enough to accommodate the extra intake or if there is a valid reason for this, such as child care.

Parents/Guardian who wish for their child to attend nursery schooling outside of their catchment area, must apply in writing to the Assistant Director of Schools, stating which school they would like their child to attend and the reason for the placement outside of their catchment area. In such cases, parents are obligated to take responsibility for transporting their child to, and from school if required. 

All correspondence pertaining to this matter can be sent to the Assistant Director of Schools, Kerry Lawrence, at the Education and Learning Centre, Jamestown, by email to: kerry.lawrence@sainthelena.gov.sh.  

SHG

15 May 2025

www.sainthelena.gov.sh

RUPERT’S DEVELOPMENT – LANDSCAPING

St Helena Government would like to invite suitably experienced contractors to submit tenders for the following contract:

CS-1931-SHG – Rupert’s Development – Landscaping

A site visit to view the works will take place at 09:00 on Friday, 23 May 2025, meeting near the Sea Rescue Building, Rupert’s.

Contractors should note that site visits requested after this date, will not be entertained unless there is a relevant reason why the contractor could not attend the scheduled site visit.

Copies of the tender document and further details can be obtained from the Procurement Officer, Tiffany Lawrence, located at the Top Floor, Post Office Building, Jamestown on telephone no: 25932 or via email through  tiffany.lawrence@sainthelena.gov.sh .

Completed tenders should be placed in the Tender Box located on the Top Floor, Post Office Building by 12:00 on Friday, 30 May 2025, clearly marked with the tender number. 

Interested parties should note that this opportunity is not being advertised overseas.

SHG

13 May 2025

SHG is pleased to announce the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR) scheduled to take place on Sunday, 18 May 2025, and invites local classic and vintage styled motorcycle riders to participate in this significant global event.

Founded in Sydney, Australia, by Mark Hawwa, the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride unites classic and vintage styled motorcycle riders from all over the world to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health. Inspired by a photo of TV Show Mad Men’s Don Draper astride a classic motorcycle and wearing his finest suit, Mark envisioned a themed ride as a unique way of connecting niche motorcycle enthusiasts and communities whilst raising vital funds to support the men in our lives.

Now a celebrated annual occasion, the DGR sees elegantly dressed riders on their distinguished motorcycles take to the streets worldwide, combining their passion for classic motorcycles with a commitment to a crucial cause.

SHG encourages all eligible motorcycle owners on the island, possessing classic or vintage-styled machines, to register their participation online and proudly represent St Helena in this international initiative. Spectators are welcome to join and show their support.

Registration Details:

Interested individuals are requested to register via the official Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride website at: www.gentlemansride.com.The online platform provides comprehensive details regarding the event, registration procedures, and opportunities for fundraising.

Event Details:

Starting point: Plantation House

Start Time: 13:00

Route: Meeting at Plantation House from 13:00 then onto Blue Hill (U-turn at the Sandy Bay viewing point/water tank) next through Sandy Bay, Green Hill (Re-group Point) towards Levelwood Shop (Re-group Point) – Longwood Avenue (Re-group Point) through Alarm Forest, down Constitution through Jamestown, ending at the Sea Front/ Yacht Club.

End Time: Estimated time of arrival is 18:00.

Representative of the organising committee on St Helena, Kyle Bennett, commented:

“Why we ride:

We ride for the friendship and camaraderie, we ride for the freedom, and we ride for our mental wellbeing. We ride for the thrill of the motorcycle and the sound of the engine.

Here on St Helena the motorcycle allows for that few minutes or hours of escape and freedom, times astride motorcycles have calmed anxious thoughts, focused on things we can control, and actually improve our overall health – lowering blood pressure, relaxing heart rate, coordinating mind and body on the action of controlling the machine. A peace behind the handlebars that few other activities afford. Cutting through the wind, carving corners, scenery flashing by as the bike propels us through time and space, the sounds of exhaust and wind roaring outside the helmet, the scent of nature, the powerful machine beneath yet firmly under our control, man and machine in sync with each other.

Thank you for your interest in this year’s event and welcome to the first of its kind for St Helena. A group of us got in touch with The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride to gauge if St Helena could to take part in this global event. This year, St Helena joins approximately 120,000 riders in over 1,000 cities across 110 countries as we ride for a common cause.”

#StHelena #DistinguishedGentlemansRide #MentalHealthAwareness

www.facebook.com/StHelenaGovt/  www.twitter.com/StHelenaGovt