Premier, Governor Agree On Need For Freedom of Information

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Sonjé Greendige/BVI Platinum News

(PLTM) - Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. Wheatley confirmed in a press conference today August 10, that freedom of information remains a priority for him, and it is a concept that he is committed to.

He mentioned that the public’s access to timely and relevant information is critical in the democratic process.

Dr. Wheatley revealed that previous administrations of the Virgin Islands Party (VIP) also committed to advancing Freedom of Information legislation during election campaigns. However, he was unable to confirm a timeframe for when progress will be likely made in this area, due to other urgent competing matters.

The purpose of the press conference was for an update to be provided on the Government of National Unity’s progress in implementing reforms according to recommendations highlighted in the Commissioner of Inquiry (CoI) report. Relatedly, the Premier noted that “We are in a reform frame of mind. I believe it is something we have to be able to deliver on. Exact timelines, I am not in a position to say right now, but it is something that I am committed to.”

Governor John Rankin also proposed that the United Kingdom (UK) government and the office of the Governor is fully supportive of initiatives to promote freedom of information.

Governor Rankin, in the joint press conference today stated that “I know that such legislation has also been adopted in a number of other Overseas Territories. Bermuda, with which I’m familiar, has a Freedom of Information Act; a very Information Commissioner.”

He indicated that there are existing models which can be utilized by the Government of the Virgin Islands to develop mechanisms to facilitate progress in the area of Freedom of Information.

In regards to transparency and accountability in formulating polices and legislation, Premier Wheatley noted that “What should in happen in Committee meetings [in the House of Assembly] after the debate, and after the Bill has its first reading, and it becomes public, and we canvass the views of the public, those views should be reflected in the final Bill. The changes in the Committee stage should reflect the public’s views. That is how it should work.”

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