The CoI Implementation Unit, which began full-time operation on August 15, 2022, is headed by Director, Ms Hadassah M. Ward. Photo: GIS

The CoI Implementation Unit will report directly to the Permanent Secretary Mrs Carolyn E. Stoutt-Igwe in the Premier’s Office, who chairs the COI Implementation Steering Committee. Photo: GIS/File

According to a press release from Government Information Services (GIS) on August 30, 2022, the CoI Implementation Unit will assist in coordinating the overall delivery of the CoI recommendations, which includes providing support to ministries in developing work plans for the delivery of recommendations, assist in drafting policy directions, and the development of new programmes and systems.

Unit to report directly to Carolyn E. Stoutt-Igwe

The unit is also responsible for preparing monthly progress reports, reports on specific work programmes, and reports to identify key issues associated with implementation and suggest remedies. The unit will report directly to the Permanent Secretary in the Premier's Office, Mrs Carolyn E. Stoutt-Igwe, who chairs the CoI Implementation Steering Committee.

Mrs Stoutt-Igwe said, “The formation of the Implementation Unit is another milestone towards successful government reform. The unit affirms Government’s commitment to the comprehensive and timely implementation of the CoI recommendations and facilitates the critical participation of ministries and departments.”

Mrs Stoutt-Igwe stated that the Implementation Unit will work very closely with relevant ministries, departments, and statutory boards, along with other implementing partners including the Governor, Cabinet Ministers, and House of Assembly members.

“The close working relationship safeguards against duplication of efforts, allows for quick responses and corrective action if any bottlenecks or problems are encountered, centralises the monitoring and reporting of progress and facilitates better coordination and communication between responsible implementing parties,” the Permanent Secretary stated.

Hadassah M. Ward is Director

The unit began full-time operation on August 15, 2022, and is headed by Director, Ms Hadassah M. Ward. It is comprised of officers with expertise in strategic planning and implementation, procurement, policy analysis and development, monitoring and evaluation, communications, research and administration. The unit will be in operation for an initial period of six months, with the possibility of subsequent extensions following an internal review.  

Ms Ward is a former senior public officer, having served as Private Secretary/Clerk, Executive Council at the Governor’s Office following her appointment as Senior Administrative Officer in the Deputy Governor’s Office. She served as the Deputy Director/Acting Government Representative at the BVI London Office and Product Development Manager/Liaison at the BVI Tourist Board London Office. Ms Ward is also a former Deputy Director and Director of the BVI Tourist Board.