In his first quarterly review since taking office, Governor Daniel Pruce has signalled he will request a final extension until August 31st for fully implementing the Commission of Inquiry recommendations in the Virgin Islands.
In the Sixth Quarterly Report published Thursday, Governor Pruce said it is “clear” the previous May 31, 2024 deadline for enacting all reforms will not be met based on current progress.
Pruce also recommended conducting a final assessment after the proposed August deadline to determine if the reforms have properly taken root.
He also recommended to keep open the possibility of assuming temporary increased powers or the UK imposing direct rule by suspending the constitution through the order in council.
He said the requested three-month extension is necessary to allow the Government, led by Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley, sufficient time to follow through on commitments to the reform process as several reforms for which the Government is responsible would not have been completed by the May 31st deadline.
Since being sworn in January 29th, the new Governor said he has worked intensively with the Premier, House of Assembly and public officers to advance implementation of the reforms. He also provided an update on the progress to implement the recommendations made by OT Minister David Rutley following his meetings with the Government in February of this year.
