BVI hosts annual attorneys general conference

Wednesday, February 18, 2004

ROAD TOWN: The 13th Annual Conference of Attorneys General of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories (UKOTs) is being held in the BVI from February 17 to 19.

According to Attorney General Cherno Jallow, this is an annual event that is rotated between Caribbean Overseas Territories (COTs) and Bermuda. It brings together colleagues in these Territories, as well as Gibraltar, Falkland Islands and St. Helena, to discuss matters of mutual interest.

The opening ceremony on Tuesday featured remarks by the Governor Thomas Macan, Chief Minister Dr. Orlando Smith and the Attorney General of England and Wales, Lord Goldsmith, Q.C., who is also the Chairman of the conference.

The Chief Minister, in his remarks, said he is pleased that the issues pertaining to Access to Justice and Legal Aid, Alternatives to Custodial Sentencing and Difficulties with Major Crime Investigations, are being discussed at the conference. On the issue of Access to justice and Legal Aid, the Chief Minister said he believes every aggrieved person is entitled to a fair trial, which is in keeping with this Government's pledge to ensure equality before the law and fairness in the administration of Justice for the people of the Territory.

The subject of Alternatives to Custodial Sentencing is currently being addressed by the Law Reform Commission and is equally important, he added. "In the Commission's report, there are proposals such as curfew restrictions, community service orders and other good conduct and rehabilitative measures which are being reviewed as alternatives to custodial sentencing." This report is currently awaiting Executive Council's approval.

Additionally, the Chief Minister spoke of the size of each individual territory and how it poses a problem for major crime investigations, especially in smaller territories where it is imperative that members of the public feel confident that, when they render assistance in police investigations, they are not susceptible to any negative or adverse actions as a result of their assistance.

Overall, Dr. Smith said the conference was timely and challenged the participants to develop strategies and recommendations for the way forward so that Overseas Territories can implement best practices that can become the model for the rest of the world. 

The other panelists echoed similar sentiments during the opening ceremony. Various high-ranking officials gathered to welcome the delegation that is expected to meet over the next three days.

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