In a recent Facebook post former Education Minister and businessman Myron V Walwyn issued a statement on the events of the past weeks in the Virgin Islands.
The local Attorney began by saying, “The past weeks have been a period of great uncertainty for the people of the Virgin Islands. However, in an admirable display of unity, we saw our people and our leaders come together to make the hard but necessary decisions that I hope are acceptable first steps in the preservation of our proud history of self-governance.”
HOW DID WE GET TO THIS POINT?
Walwyn asked, “We can certainly ask ourselves – How did we get to this point? Undeniably there’s not one person, one party, or one particular government that should shoulder the responsibility for where we find ourselves. We must all take responsibility for failing to adequately improve our antiquated governmental systems. While I did my best during my tenure as an elected official, I accept some responsibility, and in so doing; I sincerely apologize for not doing more to agitate for sufficient change in this regard. With that, I vow to support any effort to bring resolve and modernization to our systems of governance.”
COI RECCOMMENDATIONS ARE INSTRUCTIVE
Sharing his take on the COI recommendations Walwyn continued, “I have noted that many of the recommendations set forth in the COI report are very instructive and will serve the territory well once implemented.”
“I STRONGLY SUPPORT A FULL AND COMPLETE INVESTIGATION INTO ANY GOVERNMENT PROJECT THAT COULD HAVE BEEN BETTER EXECUTED, INCLUDING THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE ESHS WALL”
Regarding the highly debated Elmore Stoutt High School wall which fell under his portfolio as Education Minister. Walwyn said, “Additionally, I strongly support a full and complete investigation into any government project that could have been better executed, including the construction of the ESHS wall. In light of this, I was able to provide information for the first time through the commission of inquiry for that project. I am very understanding of the highlighted skepticism for the long-standing petty-contract structure. While well intended, I do agree that this is an area that would benefit from these recommendations. Ultimately, I’m relieved to see same referenced, recommending that the matter be completed.
The public was informed in June of 2020 that this matter was fully investigated and was advanced to the DPP’s office. I remain committed to assisting in any way to ensure a prompt conclusion.”
SYSTEMS OF GOVERNANCE
In closing Walwyn said, “It should not be understated that our systems of governance which existed prior to the CoI, reflect the ingrained spirit of what it means to be a close knit community. While fundamentally this is somewhat admirable, in order for us to remain competitive in a global marketplace we must, together, advance to the next level of governing – where our daily mission and vision are hinged on good governance as our core value.
At this juncture, like most Virgin Islanders, I welcome the opportunity to improve and sure-up our governmental systems and organizations. However, It should be widely understood that these recommendations will significantly change the way in which government interacts with its citizens and the business community. IT IS NO LONGER BUSINESS AS USUAL. As such, I strongly encourage all citizens to become familiar with the recommendations in the CoI report.”