Efforts are underway to ensure that the newly established Maritime Advisory Board is fully equipped to guide policy direction, safety standards, and international compliance within the Territory’s maritime regulatory and economic framework.
Members of the Board participated in a comprehensive orientation session on Wednesday, 24th June 2026, held at the Premier’s Office Conference Room.
The session was chaired by Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt Igwe, who emphasized the strategic importance of the maritime sector to the Virgin Islands and the need for strong governance structures to support its continued development.
“Government is committed to strengthening oversight and strategic direction in one of the Virgin Islands’ most vital industries by providing Board members with an in-depth overview of their roles and responsibilities, as well as the legislative and policy frameworks that govern the maritime sector,” she said.
During the session, Board members were formally introduced and took the Oath of Confidentiality. They also received briefings on the Government’s Statutory Boards Policy, including procedures governing the appointment and removal of board members, reinforcing established good governance practices.
Presentations covered the Board’s Terms of Reference, key provisions of the Merchant Shipping Act, and the implications of the ongoing Maritime Law Review Project.
Members were also updated on developments within the Virgin Islands’ maritime industry, including preparations for the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Instruments Implementation (III) Code Audit.
Chief Accident Investigator at the Marine Safety Investigation and Reporting Authority (MSIRA), Mr. Jerome Padmore, highlighted the Authority’s role in strengthening maritime safety across the Territory. He outlined MSIRA’s independent mandate, marine accident investigation procedures, and its contribution to meeting the Virgin Islands’ international obligations under International Maritime Organization standards.
Chairman of the Maritime Advisory Board, Mr. Robert Hirst, addressed the session and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve, noting his commitment to working collaboratively with fellow members to advance the Territory’s maritime interests.
The orientation forms part of the Government’s ongoing effort to ensure that statutory board members are adequately equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively discharge their responsibilities and support the continued growth and development of the Virgin Islands’ maritime sector.
The Maritime Advisory Board comprises: John Samuel and Lecia Christopher-Thomas (Virgin Islands Shipping and Maritime Authority – VISMA), John Greenwood (BVI Bar Association), Marjorie Smith (BVI Chamber of Commerce), Michele Hibbert (Association of Registered Agents), Sean Durant (Designate, BVI Ports Authority), Theodore James (Department of Agriculture and Fisheries), Kadia Turnbull (Secretary, Ministry of Communications and Works), Greg Romney (HM Customs), Anthony George, and Kevin Richards.