International
Virgin Islands Delegation Strengthens Interparliamentary Relations with UK Visit
A delegation from the Virgin Islands (VI) recently embarked on a significant journey to the United Kingdom (UK) to engage in constructive interparliamentary discussions with key individuals within the UK Parliament. Led by the Speaker of the House of Assembly of the Virgin Islands, Honourable Corine George-Massicote, the high-level delegation comprised prominent figures from the VI’s political landscape.
Accompanying Speaker George-Massicote were Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer; Leader of the Opposition, Honourable Ronnie W. Skelton; Attorney General, Honourable Dawn J. Smith; Member for the Third District, Honourable Julian Fraser; and Member for the Eighth District, Honourable Marlon Penn. The delegation was also joined by the Clerk of the House of Assembly, Ms. Phyllis Evans; Public Relations Officer, Mr. Linton V. Leonard; and the Acting Director of the BVI London Office, Ms. Tracy Bradshaw.
The primary objective of the delegation was to strengthen interparliamentary relations and modernize the House of Assembly through collaborative efforts. Throughout their visit, the VI delegation sought to foster stronger ties with their UK counterparts, focusing on enhancing collaboration, exchanging best practices, and promoting mutual understanding in various parliamentary matters. The delegation held a series of crucial meetings at the House of Commons, with the gracious support of the Interparliamentary Relations Office.
The visit commenced with an initial meeting between Speaker George-Massicote and the UK House Speaker, Honourable Lindsay Hoyle. This significant encounter paved the way for in-depth discussions on vital matters concerning parliamentary affairs, governance, and interparliamentary cooperation.
During the interactive meetings, a wide range of topics were covered, including the establishment and implementation of Standing Orders, which form the foundation of parliamentary procedures and ensure an efficient legislative process. Discussions also encompassed the reformation of the VI’s existing Standing Orders to meet the evolving needs of its parliament. The delegation also explored digital advancements in parliamentary operations, with a focus on leveraging technology to improve transparency, accessibility, and efficiency. The essential role of Bill Committees in scrutinizing legislation and facilitating comprehensive deliberations on proposed bills was another key topic of discussion. Additionally, the delegation gained valuable insights into the functioning of the Interparliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) and the significance of maintaining parliamentary integrity and good governance. The role of the UK’s Governance Office in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance within the parliamentary framework was also addressed.
The productive exchanges between the VI delegation and their UK counterparts underscored a mutual commitment to bolstering interparliamentary cooperation, sharing expertise, and learning from each other’s experiences. All participants expressed optimism that these discussions would lay the foundation for a strengthened partnership, further promoting the democratic values and principles that unite the VI and the UK.
Upon the delegation’s return to the VI, the insights gained from this mission will be instrumental in furthering the Territory’s parliamentary practices and enhancing governance mechanisms, commencing with the Fifth House of Assembly. The delegation’s visit marks a significant step forward in strengthening interparliamentary relations between the VI and the UK, fostering collaboration and promoting good governance.
International
BVI Will Rock Their Mismatched Socks for Down Syndrome Awareness
The British Virgin Islands is preparing for a vibrant celebration as the Social Development Department urges residents to “Rock Your Socks” tomorrow, March 21, in honour of individuals with Down Syndrome.
A colorful array of mismatched socks will adorn the islands, spreading awareness and challenging stereotypes surrounding this genetic condition.
Led by the Disability Services of the Social Development Department, the initiative aims to highlight the uniqueness and diversity of individuals with Down Syndrome.
Residents are encouraged to wear mismatched socks, capture moments through photographs, and share them on social media platforms, tagging the Disability Services’ Facebook page @disability-services-socialdevelopmentVI and using the hashtag #endthestereotype.
Entertainment
Convictions Overturned for Vybz Kartel and Co-Defendants Due to Juror Misconduct
The Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (JCPC) in London has overturned the convictions of dancehall artists Adidja ‘Vybz Kartel’ Palmer, Shawn ‘Storm’ Campbell, and two others, citing juror misconduct during their trial in Jamaica.
The Privy Council’s ruling sends the case back to Jamaica’s Court of Appeal, which will determine whether a retrial is warranted for the artists—along with Kahira Jones and Andre ‘Mad Suss’ St. John—who have served 12 and a half years in prison for the murder of Clive ‘Lizard’ Williams.
During the trial, prosecutors relied heavily on cellphone records and testimony from Lamar “Wee” Chow, the sole eyewitness, who claimed Williams was killed at Kartel’s residence in Havendale, St Andrew, in August 2011. Following a grueling 64-day trial, the men were sentenced to life in prison in April 2014, marking the longest trial in Jamaica’s legal history. Although the Jamaica Court Of Appeal upheld the convictions in April 2020, it reduced their parole eligibility.
The defendants were granted an appeal to the UK-based Privy Council on the grounds of improperly obtained cellular evidence, tainted jury after a bribery attempt, and alleged undue pressure from the trial judge, Justice Lennox Campbell, to reach a verdict. The final appeal was heard on February 14 and 15.
The Privy Council, composed of judges Lord Reed, Lord Lloyd-Jones, Lord Briggs, Lord Burrows, and Lady Simler, unanimously ruled in favor of allowing the appeal, deeming the conviction unsafe and quashing it. However, the judges refrained from expressing views on the other issues raised during the appeal.
Critically, the judges scrutinized the handling of jury issues by the trial judge, including the continuation of the trial with a corrupt juror and the lack of sufficient action to mitigate potential biases.
One juror was discharged early in the trial due to concerns for her son’s safety, while another juror, Livingston Caine (Juror X), was found guilty of attempting to bribe fellow jurors. Despite this, Caine was allowed to continue serving on the jury, as Jamaican law requires at least 11 jurors for a murder trial to proceed. The Privy Council deemed this inaction as detrimental to the fairness of the trial.
The judges highlighted the judge’s failure to adequately address the alleged bribery and the potential prejudice that Juror X’s behavior may have caused among the remaining jurors. They emphasized the absence of legislative provisions in Jamaica to address jury tampering, contrasting it with the protocols in England and Wales.
The Privy Council’s decision, detailed under Case ID JCPC 2022/0049, “Shawn Campbell and 3 others (Appellants) v The King (Respondent) No 2 (Jamaica),” marks a significant development in the case, raising questions about the integrity of the trial process and the need for reforms to safeguard against juror misconduct.
Entertainment
Peetah Morgan, Lead Singer of Morgan Heritage, Passes Away at 47
Reggae enthusiasts worldwide are mourning the untimely passing of Peetah Morgan, the lead singer of the renowned reggae band Morgan Heritage. The somber news was announced by the band through a heartfelt statement shared on their Instagram on Sunday, February 25.
The band’s statement, while confirming Peetah’s passing, did not disclose the cause of death, however reports indicate that he died from a massive stroke.
Peetah Morgan was 47 years old at the time of his demise. The music industry and fans alike are left in shock as they grapple with the sudden loss of the veteran singer.
The family’s statement expressed gratitude for the overwhelming love and support received, asking for continued prayers during this difficult time. They also requested respect for their privacy as they navigate through the process of healing.
Peetah Morgan’s contribution to reggae music, especially as the frontman of Morgan Heritage, has left an indelible mark. As fans come together to remember his legacy, the reggae community mourns the loss of a talented artist who has left an enduring impact on the genre.
-
Uncategorized2 weeks ago
Multiple Airports Targeted in Bomb Threats: RVIPF Investigates Coordinated Attacks
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Heavy Rain Triggers Flash Flood Warning in British Virgin Islands
-
Uncategorized2 weeks ago
Ciboney School of Excellence is the Primary School Foreign Language Bowl Champions
-
Local News1 week ago
Heavy Rains Damage Retaining Wall at Joe’s Hill Manor Estate
-
Uncategorized1 week ago
New Immigration Bill Aims to Clarify Residence and Belonger Status in the Virgin Islands
-
Uncategorized2 weeks ago
Records Management Centre Showcases Vital Role in Preserving History
-
Uncategorized1 week ago
Elmore Stoutt High School Set to Resume In-Person Classes Tomorrow
-
Uncategorized1 week ago
Virgin Islands Responds to Flash Flood Emergency: Governor Pruce Leads Recovery Efforts