Local News
Celebrating the Legacy of H. Lavity Stoutt: A Tribute to a Pioneering Politician
A Flashback on H. Lavity Stoutt’s Impact
The 24th H. Lavity Stoutt Commemorative Celebration is set to unfold from February 27th to March 7th, 2024.
This event pays homage to the legacy of H. Lavity Stoutt, a trailblazing politician who left an indelible mark on the history of the territory.
H. Lavity Stoutt, revered as the first and longest-serving Chief Minister of the British Virgin Islands, remains a towering figure in Caribbean politics. Throughout his distinguished career, Stoutt exemplified unwavering commitment and visionary leadership, earning the admiration and respect of his constituents.
Stoutt’s remarkable tenure spanned five decades, marked by an unprecedented string of electoral victories. He triumphed in five general elections, securing mandates in 1967, 1979, 1986, 1991, and 1995. His tenure as Chief Minister encompassed three non-consecutive terms, serving from 1967 to 1971, 1979 to 1983, and 1986 until his passing in 1995.
Under Stoutt’s stewardship, the British Virgin Islands experienced significant advancements and transformative initiatives across various sectors. His visionary policies laid the foundation for economic growth, infrastructure development, and social progress, shaping the territory into the vibrant community it is today.
Beyond his political achievements, Stoutt’s legacy endures as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. His commitment to public service, integrity, and inclusivity continues to resonate, serving as a guiding light for leaders and citizens alike.
His legacy remains etched in the hearts and minds of all who cherish the rich heritage of the British Virgin Islands.
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Thirteen Restaurants to Serve Up Lobster Delights at Anegada Lobster Festival 2024
Local News
British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission Welcomes New Leadership
The British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission (BVIFSC) has announced new appointments to its governing board, with Mr. Gerard St Clair Farara KC stepping in as Chairman and Ms. Patlian Johnson as Commissioner. The appointments, confirmed by the Ministry of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, mark a new chapter for the commission as it seeks to strengthen the territory’s financial services sector.
Mr. Gerard St Clair Farara KC has been appointed to a three-year term as Chairman, effective August 1, 2024. A seasoned legal expert with a distinguished career, Farara currently serves as a Commercial Court Judge for the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and leads the litigation team at the BVI office of COLLAS CRILL, formerly Farara Kerins. Farara’s prominence in the legal community is further highlighted by his appointment as Queen’s Counsel in 1996, cementing his standing as a leading figure in the Virgin Islands Bar and the broader Eastern Caribbean.
Ms. Patlian Johnson will serve a one-year term as Commissioner, also beginning on August 1, 2024. Johnson, a Strategy and Policy Advisor with extensive experience, currently holds the position of National Coordinator for the UNDP Project Office. She brings an impressive academic background, including a Master of Science in Economics and Finance from the University of Bristol and a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Accounting with First Class Honours from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus.
The pair will replace outgoing Chairman Mr. Robin F. Gaul and Commissioner Mr. Melvin A. Turnbull, whose terms have concluded. Minister of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE (AL), praised the new appointments, stating, “I am delighted to welcome Mr. Farara and Ms. Johnson to the BVIFSC Board of Commissioners. Their combined expertise will be invaluable as we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities facing the financial services sector.”
Smith also expressed gratitude to the departing board members for their significant contributions to the growth and stability of the territory’s financial services industry. According to the Government Information Service (GIS), these appointments underscore the Virgin Islands’ commitment to maintaining a well-regulated and competitive financial services sector.
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