STATEMENT BY

THE OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY GOVERNOR

4^TH JUNE, 2025

This statement addresses the inaccurate statements, impressions or expressions, indirectly or explicitly via a media platform which falsely reported the Deputy Governor’s refusal to allow public officers the opportunity to express their constitutional rights to expression and assembly. These rights and freedoms are established in sections 23 and 24 of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007.

On Friday 30^th May, Deputy Governor, Mr. David D. Archer, Jr. received a copy of a correspondence from His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Daniel Pruce to Mr. Floyd Burnett acknowledging receipt of a request for a peaceful demonstration in Road Town.

As part of the correspondence, the Governor requested of the Deputy Governor to share Mr. Burnett’s correspondence to Senior Managers so they can engage staff within their Ministries, should they have questions regarding the march.

The Governor’s request was executed on Friday 30^th May, 2025 by the Deputy Governor.

The Deputy Governor’s communication included instructions on how public officers can be released if they intended to attend the march while ensuring the delivery of services to clients, which is in line with established policies within the Public Service.

The work to establish a Human Rights Commission further strengthens the mission of ensuring the rights of all persons in the Territory are protected. Persons are encouraged to become familiar with Chapter 2 of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007 which speaks to the Fundamental Rights and Freedoms of the Individual.