Roadtown, Tortola - Your Excellency the Governor, Minister for Education and Culture the Honourable Andrew Fahie, members of the Police Service Commission, members of the press,

I welcome the establishment of the five-member Police Service Commission in accordance with Section 96 of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order 2007.

The Commission, which has no police officers as members, will serve as a separate and independent body and will essentially make recommendations regarding appointments, promotions, disciplinary actions, and including discharges from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.

With the existence of the Police Service Commission, all police functions and duties can be dedicated to serve the community, safeguard lives and property, maintain the peace, enforce laws, and ensure the rights of all to liberty, equality, and justice. Any misconduct by officers in the execution of such duties will be appropriately addressed by the Police Service Commission.

To chairman and members: Your duties and functions are very critical to future of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force,  and  I  believe  that you will exercise good judgment, and make recommendations from time to time in the best interest of the Force and  the Territory of the Virgin Islands.
 
Finally, I congratulate all of you on your appointments, and I look forward to a harmonious working relationship with you. I implore you to serve with integrity as members of the Police Service Commission.

Thank you