The Sitting is expected to continue with the Liquor License Bill, following a series of public meetings.

At the last Sitting, the HoA held an informal meeting that took up the day.

Also, the public is awaiting to hear answers to a series of questions posed by Opposition Legislator Hon Carvin Malone (AL).

Hon. Fahie & his seat

Many political observers are also watching for the end of the 7th Sitting as it will mean that Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1), the former Premier, will lose his seat in the HoA.

The new Speaker, Honourable Corine N. George–Massicote stated that she will no longer accept apologies from Honourable Fahie, who is in Florida facing charges for alleged drug smuggling and money laundering conspiracies.

Under the Standing Orders Section 84 (1), if a Member is prevented from attending a meeting of the HoA they shall acquaint the Speaker of their inability to attend.

It further stated in section 84 (2) “A member of the House shall vacate his seat if the Member in any one session is absent from the House for more than three consecutive sittings without written leave of the Speaker.”

It is our understanding that the former Premier wrote to the Speaker about his absence. Many persons noted that, according to the Standing Orders, it is now left to the discretion of the Speaker.

It is unclear if the 7th Sitting will end today, as the agenda remains long.

The former Premier, Hon Fahie, who was first elected by the First District in 1999, has won six consecutive elections.

Former Speaker of the HoA Julian Willock when contacted declined to comment and referred us to the new Speaker.

Meanwhile, today's Sitting will be aired LIVE on House of Assembly VI Youtube; House of Assembly of the Virgin Islands Facebook; 780 AM ZBVI Radio; CBN-Radio (90.9 FM); FLOW TV Channel 101; and CCT TV Channel 291.