Contentious VI Inquiries Bill 2024 passes in HoA with amendments
Many aspects of the controversial bill were rejected during its debate by Members from both the Government and the Opposition.
Bill in initial form was rejected by Gov’t & Opposition
Both Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) and Opposition Leader Hon Ronnie W. Skelton (AL) labelled the bill as a backward step for the territory as it continues on its path to self-determination.
In rejecting the Bill in its present form, Hon Skelton was unwavering in his position that the proposed legislation simply puts too much power in the hands of the UK’s representative and would lead to the dismantling of institutions already in place.
Hon Skelton had also said the bill needed “surgery”.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Financial Services, Labour and Trade, Honourable Lorna G. Smith OBE (AL) was of the view that the Virgin Islands Inquires Bill 2024, be amended in such a way that the sitting Governor for the Territory also be subject to such inquiries in the future.
The Willock Bill?!
Opposition legislator Honourable Myron V. Walwyn (R6) stated that the Bill was vindictive and malicious as it was an attack on sitting members of the HoA, as well as former Speaker Mr Julian Willock.
During the heated debate on the proposed Bill at the 15th Sitting of the First Session of the Fifth HoA, the Opposition member—in speaking to Section 11 (1) of the proposed new law, which provides for the employment of staff and legal counsel- told members of the House, “they should name the clause after him.” This was a reference to the former Speaker Mr Willock, who took the Commissioner of Inquiry (CoI) to court for violating the Legal Profession Act 2015.
Attorney General Hon Dawn J. Smith had also agreed with the Speaker that the lawyers working in the VI for the CoI needed to comply with the laws of the VI. According to her, they were indeed in violation of the Act.
Bill should not have left Cabinet- Hon Fraser
Opposition Member and veteran legislator Honourable Julian Fraser RA (R3) was of the opinion the bill should have never left Cabinet.
“You said that it [Bill] would not leave this house in this fashion; we need to get these things fixed, that's what it came here for, I would say to you that it never should have left the Cabinet.”
Speaking specifically to the powers to call a Commission of Inquiry, Fraser RA was of the view that at the Committee stage, the Bill should be amended to reflect similar provisions in the United Kingdom’s (UK) legislation where it provides for any Minister to call an inquiry.
‘We will do what we have to do to the bill’- Premier
Premier Wheatley said he was adamant in the spirit of democracy it can never be expected that the HoA, “can simply rubber stamp a Bill which has come from the Governor's Office, through Cabinet here to the HoA.”
He nonetheless conceded, “We are, where we are, and we will do what we have to do to the Bill, and then as it pertains to assent that will be another process but certainly we must stay true to ourselves and we will have to cross that bridge when it comes.”
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7 Responses to “Contentious VI Inquiries Bill 2024 passes in HoA with amendments”
The Virgin Islands' legal framework may not always be equipped to handle complex or sensitive issues that require an inquiry. The Governor's power to call inquiries can serve as a necessary tool to address these gaps. Past incidents have highlighted challenges related to compliance with local laws, and empowering the Governor ensures that such inquiries can be conducted when local mechanisms are insufficient or compromised.
In many democratic systems, including that of the UK of which VI is a part, it is common for high-ranking officials to have the authority to initiate inquiries. This alignment with international norms can help the Virgin Islands meet global standards of governance and accountability. By mirroring provisions found in UK legislation, the territory can demonstrate its commitment to maintaining robust oversight mechanisms, which can enhance its reputation and strengthen relationships with international partners.
One of the key advantages of placing this power in the hands of the Governor is the reduction of political interference. Elected officials, while accountable to the electorate, can sometimes be swayed by political considerations that may undermine the impartiality of an inquiry. The Governor, insulated from these dynamics, can ensure that inquiries are conducted based solely on evidence and the public interest. This safeguard is particularly important in small jurisdictions where political and personal relationships can unduly influence decision-making.
The Virgin Islands Inquiries Bill 2024 lays the groundwork for a more transparent, accountable, and resilient governance framework. As the territory navigates its path towards self-determination, ensuring robust oversight mechanisms will be essential for building a sustainable and democratic future.
I do agree the for many years successive political Leaders have not fully fulfilled the stewardship duties to the people of the BVI, not so even now, but this does not means that we should trust trust our current governor, as if he is not human as we are.
In political circles the governor is referred to as "His Excellency." That title is reserved for God our Creator and Father Superior over all created beings and things that have existed and existing.
Governor Pruce is the Chief political person in the BVI, but in a partnership agreement a junior partner rightfully have a say. As per the Topic Issue, we the people have freedom rights that we must not be allowed to be taken away from us. If we do, then we will have agreed that mental, physical and political slavery is right, rather than wrong.
Words of wisdom bellow:
( Cursed is the man that trusted in man, and make flesh his arm (defence, strength, protection, but blessed is the man that made the Lord his hope. Jeremiah 17:5 )