-
by pltm
(PLTM) - According to the annual report published by the Office of the Deputy Governor (ODG), the decisions undertaken by the Office reflect public sector transformation, good governance initiatives, and security and justice.
These areas are especially critical to the development of the Virgin Islands as it aspires to meet global standards.
As it relates to public sector transformation, the systems used in the public service are regarded as outdated and requires advancement. As a result of the inadequacies entrenched within the system, unduly delayed services have been a common feature of the public service.
Despite the need for further enhancement in the public service, the Office of the Deputy Governor announced that since the introduction of the Public Service Transformation Programme, the formal establishment of Customer Service Care Centre and appointment system has been achieved.
In addition, a service-wide Compensation Review was launched, and a Compensation Review of legal offices has been completed. In the area of digitization, the ODG boasts of the Enactment of Audio Visual Act for Court Operations, and the launch of an appointment system through Customer Service Care Centre.
The report stated that “Public Service Transformation strategies are used to ensure economic stability and to allow for transformation and long-term resilience of our people, our systems and platforms, our service and processes, our policies, laws and buildings.”
Since the publishing of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) report, there has been an increased focus on greater measures of accountability, transparency, and integrity in governmental institutions and functions.
However, even before the publication of report, the ODG enhanced efforts towards good governance including the submission of 50 Cabinet Papers including amendments to the Elections Act, Financial Investigation Agency Act, Child Maintenance and Access Act and Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (Judicial Officers Pensions) Act and Regulations. Cabinet Papers were also submitted and approved for a Tender. The report also noted that “Good Governance allows for increased transparency, accountability and fairness by ensuring we are able to focus on the key characteristics of governance and the development of the key legislations.”
The challenges within the Justice and Security systems were also addressed by the ODG through the formulation of a plan of action that highlighted improved legislation and enforcement powers, supported by a monitoring and evaluation framework.
The plan also highlighted the need for enhanced communication with the public and making the judiciary more efficient.
The justice system has been subject to scrutiny and public concern for decades. Further, the CoI report underscores several acts of corruption within national security agencies.
The recruitment of a security and Justice Policy Advisor who would conduct research, a range of assessments and management tasks to aid in the successful and timely implementation of policies is intended to alleviate some of the issues embedded in the judiciary system. The Advisor will also be guided by a framework and Criminal Court Backlog report inclusive of recommendation in the form of a plan for tackling the existing backlog.
