Inquiries Act now in force in the BVI

The BVI enacted the Inquiries Act 2024, which took effect on Monday, December 9. The new legislation replaces the Commissions of Inquiry Act of 1880 and establishes improved procedures for conducting public inquiries in the territory.

“I am delighted that we now have a modern and robust basis for conducting inquiries into matters of public interest,” Governor Daniel Pruce said while expressing his approval of the new legislation. The Act, passed by the House of Assembly on July 23, outlines the process for appointing commissioners and defines the powers and responsibilities of inquiries.

It aims to ensure that future investigations into public matters are conducted transparently and effectively, aligning with contemporary governance standards. The enactment of the Inquiries Act 2024 follows the Commission of Inquiry (COI) recommendations, which highlighted the need for legislative reforms to enhance transparency and accountability in the BVI’s public administration. The COI’s findings underscored the importance of updating outdated systems to meet current governance expectations.