Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio Wheatley has lauded the Sixth Quarterly Review on the government’s implementation of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) Recommendations, describing it as “fair, balanced, and factual.”
The report, presented by His Excellency Governor Daniel Pruce last Friday, highlighted significant progress while noting the need for an extension of the deadline to August 31.
Governor Pruce’s report, his first since taking office, acknowledged the substantial efforts made over recent months but concluded that these were insufficient to meet the original May 31 deadline. Consequently, an extension to August 31 has been recommended. The report also determined that there is no need for additional powers to be granted to the governor at this time, although it recommended that the Order in Council remain in effect over the territory.
Premier Wheatley expressed his endorsement of the review, emphasizing that it accurately reflects the diligent work of his teams.
“The greater focus given to the delivery of the implementation of the recommendations since the establishment of the Governance Reform Coordination Centre and the onboarding of the Governance Reform Manager is evidenced in the Review,” he stated.
Highlighting the enhanced levels of collaboration, coordination, and communication among all stakeholders, Dr. Wheatley voiced his confidence in meeting the revised August 31 deadline.
“I am confident that we will achieve the recommended deadline jointly agreed. I am also pleased that we can continue our current working arrangement without additional powers being granted to the Governor. This is a testament to our shared confidence that the joint plan submitted to the Minister for Overseas Territories, Hon. David Rutley, is both realistic and achievable,” he explained.
To ensure transparency and keep the public informed, Premier Wheatley has pledged to increase his government’s level of public engagement and communication. He announced plans to provide weekly updates to the public and media on the progress being made.