Local News
His Majesty Prison Hosts Groundbreaking Debate on Recidivism: Inmates Speak Out
His Majesty Prison recently facilitated its inaugural debate between male and female inmates, marking a significant step in the ongoing efforts to address recidivism rates within the penal system.
The event, organised in collaboration with the New Life Baptist Church, saw incarcerated individuals engaging in a spirited discussion on the causes of high reoffending rates and potential strategies for reducing them.
The debate, centered around the theme “Why is the rate of reoffending so high and what can the prison do to reduce the numbers,” showcased the inmates’ perspectives on the matter. Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, hailed the initiative as a testament to the prison’s commitment to prisoner welfare and rehabilitation.
“To break this cycle, we must invest in rehabilitative measures within our prison services,” Minister Wheatley stressed. “This debate was a great initiative, and I must give credit to the Prison Ministry arm at the New Life Baptist Church and His Majesty Prison for their wonderful efforts.”
Superintendent for Prison, Mr. Jay Kendall, echoed Minister Wheatley’s sentiments, underlining the importance of providing inmates with a platform to voice their opinions and contribute to the development of long-term rehabilitation strategies. Mr. Kendall pledged to incorporate inmates’ insights into the prison’s three-year strategic plan, signaling a proactive approach towards prisoner reintegration.
The debate concluded with the female team emerging as the victors, earning praise for their compelling arguments. In recognition of their efforts, they were awarded $500, while the male team, lauded for their participation, received $250 to be divided among team members upon release.
Reverend Dr. Michael A. Turnbull of the Cane Garden Bay Baptist Church pledged to donate five laptops to His Majesty Prison. This contribution aims to facilitate educational and vocational opportunities for inmates, supporting their journey towards rehabilitation and societal reintegration.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development, in collaboration with His Majesty’s Prison, remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing prisoner rehabilitation initiatives in the Virgin Islands. Through collaborative efforts and innovative programs, stakeholders aspire to create a more supportive and conducive environment for inmates striving for redemption and positive change.
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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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