The Virgin Islands Youth Parliament (VIYP) will be re launched on March 30 and re-assigned under the ambit of the House of Assembly, in keeping with the Commonwealth Parliament best practices.

A resolution was passed during the Fifth Sitting of the Second Session of the Fourth House of Assembly for the appointment of a Special Select Committee to manage the youth parliament. The committee members are: Honourable Julian Willock (Chairman); Honourable Neville A. Smith; Honourable Kye M. Rymer; Honourable Sharie B. de Castro; Honourable Julian Fraser; Honourable Melvin M. Turnbull; Honourable Marlon A. Penn; and Honourable Shereen D. Flax-Charles.

 Speaker of the House of Assembly Honourable Julian Willock said the make-up of the Youth Parliament will be brought in line with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Associations guidance on Youth Parliaments across the region.

The Speaker who will host the re-launching ceremony on  March 30 said, ““The Virgin Islands Youth Parliament will allow young people to participate in local, regional and international debates on issues facing our societies, and our Youth Parliamentarians will also focus on youth governance in the Territory and bring youth awareness education and training.” 

Premier and Leader of Government’s business, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie said he believes the Youth Parliament will contribute to a strong and secure Territory in years to come.

The Premier said, “Youth Parliament like others in the region and the Commonwealth will enable young people across the Territory to diversify their skills, be grounded in a civic consciousness, national identity and play their roles as the next generation of leaders and visionaries.”

Prior to the launch, two workshops have been scheduled for potential members on March 10 and 23. Topics to be discussed will include: The History of the Legislative Chamber/Council of the BVI; The Role of the Legislative Branch; The Role of the Speaker; The House of Assembly; Standing Orders; and The Constitution.

On Tuesday, March 24, Honourable Sharie de Castro will make a presentation on the Virgin Islands Youth Parliament at the London House in the United Kingdom to Virgin Islanders studying abroad. Honourable de Castro will be part of a delegation that will be on the Premier’s annual visit to the UK.