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  by pltm
• Nov 14, 2022
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(PLTM) - Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. Natalio Wheatley has warned that participation in the consultation process for the crafting of the new Virgin Islands constitution is critically important.

Speaking at the launch of the public consultation process by the Constitutional Review Commission, Premier Wheatley urged persons to ensure that they are included in the conversation and ensure that their views are heard – and to participate in a respectful manner.

“If you do not make use of this opportunity, it may be a very long time before another one presents itself,” Premier Wheatley stated.

He added, “I know that the members of the Constitutional Review Commission and all our Constitutional actors are fully aware that if a constitution does not reflect what the people want, then that contradicts everything a Constitution is supposed to stand for and it makes a mockery of the process.”

The Premier indicated that there are several important issues to be addressed during the consultation process, including the powers of the Governor in the context of the United Nations Charter, Article 73, which charges Non-Self-Governing Territories and Administrating Powers with the responsibility to bring an end to colonialism and its remnants.

“So, these are very important issues, and it is important that as many persons as possible come forward and share their views and have their voices heard on these matters,” the Premier stated.

The Premier noted that since the return of legislative function to the BVI in 1950 – 72 years ago – the Virgin Islands has had four written Constitutions.

“Our current Constitution, the Virgin Islands Constitution Order 2007 was enacted 15 years ago. The Constitution prior to that was enacted in 1976 – 31 years prior to the 2007 Constitution. So, persons can appreciate why it is important to get the provisions right,” Premier Wheatley stated.

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