Gov Jaspert ‘directs’ Judge to consider holding CoI in private
In fact, the outgoing Governor, who has allegedly continually tried to bully and frustrate the duly democratically elected Government of the Virgin Islands, has suggested to the appointed CoI Judge from the United Kingdom to consider holding meetings in private.
According to the Instrument of Appointment of the Right Honourable Sir Gary Hickinbottom as the Judge of the Commission of Inquiry, gazette on January 20, 2021, Governor Jaspert has told the Judge he may allow for information to be given to the Inquiry in confidence.
“AND I FURTHER DIRECT THAT the meetings of the Commission may be held in private whenever you the said RIGHT HONOURABLE SIR GARY HICKINBOTTOM considers it appropriate to do so and THAT, to the extent permitted by law, and so far as it is consistent with the public welfare in achieving the objectives of the Inquiry, you may allow for information to be given to the Inquiry in confidence,” a section of the Instrument of Appointment stated.
Section 9 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act 1880 provides for the Commissioner to make rules for the conduct and management of the Inquiry and many are now wondering if the Governor is already trying to interfere in the work of the Commission by making certain suggestions to the Judge.
Broadcast the CoI live – Premier
Premier Fahie had said it is his considered view and that of the VI Government that the Commission of Inquiry called by the Governor, even as he exits the VI in a matter of days, should be open to the public and broadcast live, including on the internet, given the international interest that exists in this matter.
In calling for a full media broadcast, Hon Fahie said it is common practice in many jurisdictions for hearings in Commissions of Inquiry to be broadcast live as it aids the public in having accurate information and in seeing that the Inquiry is conducted in a transparent manner with no secrets or hidden agendas.
He said Section 2 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act 1880 as amended, already provides that unless there is any contrary direction, inquiries should be public.
“Section 9 of the Act provides for the Commissioner to make rules for the conduct and management of the Inquiry. So, if there is any doubt about live broadcasts, Section 9 should clear this up,” the Premier underscored.
Hon Fahie argued that the VI is heavily dependent on international business and that the success of various industries rides on the territory’s repetition; a reputation that was severed when the Governor made allegations of corruption existing in the territory and in the government's use of public funds.
41 Responses to “Gov Jaspert ‘directs’ Judge to consider holding CoI in private”
what the rac**t governor has to hide?
There have been talks of independence which I support, but only if there are means by which THE PEOPLE can hold the govt completely accountable.
What is the Governor motives, are they really as he explained, I find it troubling that outsiders have such power to influence a country. Taxation without representation in a different form.
The UK came in with millions of dollars in disaster relief after Irma and now more millions in financial aid due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
And you want independence? Where else will you get these handouts from? Smh.
Oh and Irma good U.K. bad U.K. they sent unnecessary body bags, food fit for birds and soldiers.
Then used it as an excuse to place upon the territory a huge loan for recovery years after the hurricane.
This would have been more appropriate, more police and strategic positioning in each community. This they need to look into currently with waiting cruisers and catch the bikers at a moments notice when they start skylarking and endangering motorist.
Regarding the food, there's no surprise that people from here could COMPLAIN about FREE food (and I'm a Belonger!). You expecting f%$&king McDonalds??? Don't like it, don't eat it. The fact that you complain about free handouts shows the entitlement.
Once again - please answer my question on what you offer to the UK in return? I'm guessing the answer is a big fat Zero.
Live stream. the Commission of Inquiry. That's in the best interest of the BVI.
I have a question, why do we have to use a judge of the governors ultimate choosing from the UK?
There is no way that judge can be un biased in this investigation.
Those whose navel-string is buried here,
in particular those with rugged complexion are described as drug traffickers
When your parents investigate your behaviour di/ did you have a say as to who should por shouldn't be the head of the inquiry?
Go have a c seat,look,listen and behave yourself,do as you are told.
Please read. The enquiry does not have to be public. The newspaper needs to do its research.
have you ever asked yourself where did all the cocaine went following the seizure
have you ever asked yourself where did all the cash money went following the seizure
When dope and money is seized the governor and the commissioner tells some people what they want them to hear
The Bird Sanctuary is under investigation by Greater Britain and the beat goes on
Jasper now have information on the BVI all over the world. People it is a plan of the UK to take control of the BVI all because Premier Fahie is standing up to them.
What is your name? Pathetic query when you don't even know your name or whence you came.
I haven’t vetted what’s on my mind for a long time on the affairs of my home country. Mostly because to this day I am proud of the effort our government is making with this pandemic to help our people. However, I would still observe with an eagle eye when I am not playing with my children or producing music other than work, work, work.
This COI right here by Mr. Gus, I have to say is no surprise but I am ready to give up the UK
The Premier wanted to hear the UK,well UK is here.