Publication Date: 
Wednesday, 8 June 2022

PROPOSAL

FRAMEWORK FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF
THE COMMISSION OF INQUIRY REPORT AND OTHER REFORMS

GOVERNMENT OF NATIONAL UNITY
OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS

OVERVIEW

This proposal outlines the Government of National Unity’s proposed approach to reform in the best interest of the people of the Virgin Islands. More specifically, it sets out a framework for the implementation of the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry Report (COI Report) under continued democratic governance, as well as other reforms. The Government of National Unity is fully committed to expeditiously implementing all of the report’s recommendations made by Rt. Hon. Sir Gary Hickinbottom, with the exception of Recommendation A1: Temporary Partial Suspension of the Constitution that would not apply under this proposal. The recommendations overall are aimed at strengthening weak areas of governance highlighted in the report. It is envisioned that the reform process will be completed over the course of two years in which the elected arms of Government, working in close cooperation with His Excellency (H.E.) the Governor Mr. John J. Rankin, CMG, would remain under enhanced monitoring and supervision by the United Kingdom (UK) while the recommendations are implemented. The actors responsible for delivering the COI Report recommendations include the Governor, Premier, Cabinet, Ministries of Government, and House of Assembly (HOA). The ultimate objectives of the reform process are to deliver justice where wrongdoing is found, engender a new culture in Government in the handling of the public’s business, and ensure the effective functioning of the Government institutions and systems that support good governance. Delivering these objectives for the people of the Virgin Islands is at the heart of this proposal and will have other meaningful benefits, such as improved infrastructure, improved delivery of public services and justice for all. These in turn will inspire greater confidence in Government’s ability to deliver for the people of the Territory.