PUBLIC URGED TO SUPPORT WORK OF LAW REFORM COMMISSION

Residents of the BVI are being encouraged to contribute to the work of the 
Law Reform Commission, as it seeks to update the laws related to juvenile 
sentencing/alternative punishment and education.

The Commission, which began operating in April 2002, has been soliciting 
input from the general public on the reform process. Information has also 
been sent to the schools to solicit submissions from the Parent Teacher 
Associations and students, stakeholders and other interest groups, such 
Rotary, Lions, women's and men's organizations.

"The establishment of the commission gives the community a chance to shape and forge the way this territory is to run in the century ahead," Chief 
Minister the Honourable Ralph T. O'Neal said Monday during his regular 
press conference.

"As it relates to juvenile sentencing and alternative punishment, I would 
like to encourage residents to submit their input before the deadline at 
the end of this week," he said.

Hon. O'Neal said his government has a list of concerns regarding the youth 
of this territory, which he envisages will be addressed during this reform 
process.

Two committees have been established: a Law Reform Commission Juvenile Sentencing and Alternative Punishment Legislation Committee and an Education Legislation Committee. These committees will work together with the Law Reform Commission and a Legal Draftsman to amend and improve existing legislation and make recommendations where they see fit. "I am encouraging everyone in the community to make your contribution and work with the commission to reform the laws of the BVI," Chief Minister O'Neal said.