Bishop Cline Urges Government to Own Up
Bishop John Cline has spoken out against blaming the Commission of Inquiry (COI) for the BVI's economic challenges, emphasizing that the government should take responsibility for its policy decisions. He highlighted the dismantling of the Trade Commission as a significant setback for economic growth.
In a recent appearance on The Big Story programme, Bishop John Cline delivered a poignant message to the leaders of the British Virgin Islands, urging them to take accountability for the territory's economic stagnation rather than attributing it to the Commission of Inquiry (COI).
Initiated in 2021 to investigate governance and corruption within the territory, the COI has been a point of contention amongst government officials, with some claiming that the reforms it necessitated have hindered economic progress. Cline, however, argues that the inquiry itself has, in fact, led to the strengthening of some governmental processes and structures, ultimately laying the groundwork for more effective governance.
He pointed out that real economic development is being stymied not by the COI but by critical policy missteps made by the current administration. Among these, he specifically criticized the decision to dismantle the Trade Commission, which he believes was a key mechanism designed to support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, attract investments, and streamline licensing procedures to foster economic expansion.
The Trade Commission, as described by Cline, who served as its deputy chair before its disbandment, was envisioned as a pivotal institution for economic development, tasked with attracting both local and international investments. He argues that its removal has significantly impaired the territory's ability to pursue economic growth and diversification, affecting sectors crucial for the BVI's development, such as tourism and agriculture.
The COI, led by Sir Gary Hickinbottom and commissioned by then-Governor Augustus Jaspert, concluded in 2022 with a report highlighting severe governance failings and recommending comprehensive reforms. While the government has taken steps to implement these recommendations, critics like Cline believe that excessive focus on the COI's fallout has diverted attention from essential economic initiatives.
Cline's commentary comes at a critical time for the BVI, as the territory grapples with balancing governance reforms with the urgent need for economic revitalization. His call to action urges both government leaders and citizens to prioritize and demand accountability for the territory's economic future, emphasizing that leadership and policy choices, rather than external inquiries, will determine the BVI's path to prosperity.
Primary source: BVI News