JAMAICA POLICE IN TCI PRAISED BY HOLNESS

The British Virgin Islands is getting ready to enter what could be a series of intense negotiations with the United Kingdom over far-reaching constitutional reforms proposed by the territory.

Following the report of the national Constitutional Review Commission (CRC), the territory’s House of Assembly has selected the recommendations that will form the basis of its talks with the UK.

The broad headings cover strengthening democracy, improving accountability with  stronger checks and balances, legislative oversight, public service, public efficiency and safeguarding culture and heritage services, for more scrutiny in the legislative process, for systems that work, and for protecting  and preserving the VI’s culture and heritage.

However, the specific demands could lead to protracted talks as BVI and UK officials prepare to delve into the details to upgrade what the BVI Premier, Dr Natalio Wheatley, calls an outdated constitution that’s no longer fit for purpose.

The current BVI constitution came into effect in 2007 as part of a wide-ranging process of reviewing the constitutions of the UK Overseas Territories(OTs) in the early 2000s.

Making the case that the current BVI constitution had served its purpose “for its time”, Premier Wheatley declared during a local public consultation: “The Virgin Islands has evolved. Our society has grown more complex, our economy more dynamic, and our people more empowered.”

According to the Premier, the BVI needs “a constitution that will enable us to realise our aspirations without undue impediment. A constitution which is fit for purpose.”

One of the key issues for a new constitution relates to the political and governance status of the territory under the heading of ‘self-determination’ to be determined in a referendum before 2032.

Another specific demand calls for scaling back the current broad powers of the UK-appointed Governor, especially the Reserved Powers, which give the Governor the authority to override the elected House of Assembly. The legislators want more of the Governor’s powers to be devolved to the elected representatives.

In all, the BVI Constitution Review Commission(CRC) had submitted 57 recommendations for the legislators to consider, including increasing the number of elected members in the HoA from 13 to 15, with the addition of two at-large seats. Creating a senate, adding another ministerial portfolio and extending the parliamentary term by another year to five years are also proposed.