The new Virgin Islands Shipping and Maritime Authority is one step closer to becoming a fully operational statutory body after its first board of directors completed an orientation session ahead of commencing official duties on Sept. 1, government announced last Thursday.
The session marked a “pivotal moment” in the VI Shipping Registry’s transition to a statutory board under the VI Shipping and Maritime Authority Act, 2023, according to Premier’s Office Permanent Secretary Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe.
The act is taking effect in phases, and certain sections that came into force on Dec. 15 created the new authority, according to VISR Director John Samuel.
The rest of the law is scheduled to take effect on Aug. 15, making the authority “fully statutory,” Mr. Samuel told the Beacon through acting government Communications Director Karia Christopher.
The new authority is designed in part to help the territory maintain a “fully functional” Category One designation under the British Maritime Administration through consistent compliance with global and United Kingdom standards, according to Government Information Services.
“The new structure also improves the efficiency, resiliency and business flexibility required to compete in the very competitive maritime flagging marketplace,” GIS stated in a press release issued last Thursday.
Ms. Stoutt-Igwe noted that the new board’s appointment came amid ongoing efforts to strengthen the governance of statutory boards through Commission of Inquiry reforms and other measures.
The recent orientation session therefore included a review of the Statutory Boards Policy, which is designed to ensure that statutory boards align with best practices, according to government.
Ms. Stoutt-Igwe said the board must operate in accordance with that policy.
Transition framework
She also commended Mr. Samuel and his team for establishing a framework to facilitate a smooth transition from department to statutory board.
During the orientation, Kaisa Penn, the government’s deputy director of human resources, briefed the board members on that framework and outlined plans to ensure continuity and efficiency under the new authority.
Directors were also introduced to VISR executives, and they signed an oath of confidentiality.
Additionally, the directors received a briefing on their responsibilities under the legislative framework governing the authority.
Board of directors
The board of directors is chaired by Romney Penn and also includes Deputy Chair Hermia Tench, Albert Wheatley, Berke Ayazli, Rochelle Lawrence, Mitsy Ellis-Simpson and Olanzo Boynes.
“I am happy for this great opportunity,” Mr. Penn said. “Based on my experience with managing various companies locally and internationally, I will be able to make difficult decisions as necessary.”
Ship registrations
He also hinted about plans to expand the territory’s ship-registration sector.
“There are many boats that do not bear our name, and I think we should fully tap into those markets,” Mr. Penn said.