Report laid by Premier: New upper chamber/Senate coming
While the Lisa E. Penn-Lettsome-led Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) did not recommend the immediate introduction of bicameralism, noting that many benefits of a second chamber could be achieved through strengthening the unicameral one, the current HoA rejected that recommendation.
Instead, the HoA Committee of the whole House agreed to amend that position, supporting the establishment of a Parliament of the Virgin Islands (VI) comprising a HoA and a Senate, with the Senate serving as a second chamber for legislative scrutiny, with transitional arrangements to govern when the Senate begins to operate.
The HoA Committee has also agreed to a detailed Senate model, including provisions on composition, appointment, and functions, which is to inform the preparation of the constitutional amendment package. Members further agreed that money bills should not be presented to the Senate and that safeguards are required to prevent undue delay to urgent, time-sensitive legislation.
Rationale
Members in reviewing the Penn-Lettsome report supported establishing a Senate as a mechanism to improve legislative scrutiny and strengthen public confidence, while ensuring the Senate complements, rather than competes with, the elected HoA. Members also emphasised the need for clear constitutional limits and mechanics, including a mechanism to resolve disagreements between the Houses. There are two Houses in all of the independent Caribbean islands and other Westminster-type democracies, including the United Kingdom.
This new Senate will be a request made to London as part of the upcoming constitution review changes. The delegation will be led by Premier and Minister of Finance Dr The Hon. Natalio D Wheatley (R7) and is expected to include the current Opposition Leader Hon Myron V. Walwyn (R6).
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