Proposed Legislation Provides Police Protection for Whistleblowers in the Virgin Islands

A new bill has been introduced to the House of Assembly, promising police protection for individuals who come forward with information about financial crimes or wrongdoing in the territory. The proposed legislation aims to create a safe haven for whistleblowers and their families.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• Whistleblowers can request and be approved for police protection if they feel endangered or are likely to be endangered as a result of their disclosures.
• The bill defines “family” as including spouse, father, mother, child, grandchild, brother, and sister, and provides police protection for these individuals as well.
• A Whistleblower Reward Fund will be established, consisting of voluntary contributions and other monies allocated by the House of Assembly.

How the Whistleblower Reward Fund Will Work

• The fund’s object is to provide monetary rewards to whistleblowers whose disclosures lead to the arrest and conviction of accused persons.
• Whistleblowers can be rewarded with 10% of the amount recovered, or a sum determined by the Governor after consultation with Cabinet.
• Monies for the Fund will be paid into a bank account opened by the Accountant General with the approval of the Financial Secretary.

Premier Fahie’s Response

Premier Andrew A. Fahie hailed the Whistleblower legislation as “good for the territory,” saying that it was introduced on the government’s own initiative and not due to external pressure or coercion. He noted that the bill is a fulfillment of campaign promises made by his government since taking office.