“I believe that people do not want the same old brand of politics. In fact, the brand of politics that got us here may not be what is best for a sustainable future,” Dr Dawson said during the swearing-in ceremony for lawmakers in the House of Assembly (HOA) recently.

That future, according to Dr Dawson, is one where opportunities abound and Virgin Islanders are prepared to take full advantage of them. The Junior Minister further stated that locals must be positioned on their own two feet to take part in that sustainable future.

He further commented that the territory’s governance systems, economy, legal systems, systems of accountability, infrastructure, and the provision of social services must all be developed sustainably if the BVI is going to determine its own destiny.

This goal, he argued, cannot be achieved simply by the efforts of those on the government’s side, but will require the support of members of the political opposition. “If solid progress is to be made and if the efforts are to be sustained into the future, we must work together,” he added.

Meanwhile, Dr Dawson said he felt that there is a lack of confidence in the government in the territory and urged that this too, must be restored.

“When I say government I do not simply mean our elected officials,” he explained. “I also include public officers, both at central government and statutory bodies as well as governmental systems.”

The Junior Minister said it will require insightful reflection, creative solutions, and committed actors to address this issue and rebuild confidence in government and governmental systems.

Dr Dawson further called on the government to be effective, transparent and fair at all levels to achieve this goal.