Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie (R1), left, with Attorney General, Honourable Dawn J. Smith following her swearing in on October 1, 2020. Photo: GIS

Clerk of the House of Assembly, Mrs Phyllis Evans puts the lapel pin on newly sworn in Attorney General, Dawn J. Smith. Photo: HoA

Honourable Dawn J. Smith succeeds Ghanian Mr Baba F. Aziz who served in the post as Attorney General from 2010 to 2011 and again from 2015 to this year. Photo: GIS/File

Premier Fahie, according to a Government press release, congratulated Honourable Smith on her appointment and stated that the Government looks forward to a harmonious relationship as its ministries and departments work together with the new Attorney General and the Chambers under her leadership.

“I urge the Attorney General to always keep the integrity of the rule of law so that even Governments can be challenged to ensure that there is democracy.”

He added, “It is not about the appointment of a high post but a reminder that Virgin Islanders must remain laser focused on our journey and appointment with destiny.”

‘Day of hope’

The Premier said the day was one of hope, and one that renewed the energy of the people of the Virgin Islands to keep their hands on the plow.

“Today is a day of hope in the advancement of our people where every young boy and girl of the Virgin Islands who are in primary and high school can have the confidence to dream about taking up their rightful place in society in the BVI. By viewing what is taking place today with the appointment of Honourable Dawn Smith as Attorney General reassures them with profound confidence that it is possible and achievable”, the Premier said.

Premier Fahie further stated that it was fitting that the Attorney General’s swearing in was held during United Kingdom’s Black History Month. He also explained what the appointment of a local Attorney General means to the ancestors of the Virgin Islands.

“We are getting to the destination where our ancestors started the journey and died with the hope that their future generations would get there one day once we remained in prayer, trusting in God for His wisdom, knowledge and understanding protection and guidance. This means that we are getting there, step by step”, Premier said.

Locals filling top posts under VIP Gov’t

The Premier mentioned other indigenous Virgin Islanders that hold senior post in the Government and Public Service including the Deputy Governor, Premier, Leader of the Opposition, female members of Government, the newly Appointed Attorney General, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Clerk of the House of Assembly, the first local Attorney General and Financial Secretary.

Additionally, Premier Fahie outlined other posts he wishes to see held by Virgin Islanders including the Commissioner of Police, Superintendent of Her Majesty’s Prison, and Governor.

Honourable Smith succeeds Ghanian Mr Baba F. Aziz who served in the post from 2010 to 2011 and again from 2015 to this year.

Honourable Smith is the second local Attorney General of the Virgin Islands. R. Dancia Penn-Sallah, QC OBE first served in the post from 1992 to 1999.