The announcement came via a press release as the First Sitting of the First Session of the Fifth House of Assembly (HoA) got underway today at the Multi-Purpose Sports Complex in Road Town, Tortola.

Opposition Leader Hon Ronnie W. Skelton (AL) and the members of the Opposition said they have determined and agreed, in consideration of the wishes of the people of the Virgin Islands, to implement the system of shadow ministers.

Shadow areas defined by VI Oppostion

As such, Opposition Leader Hon Skelton will shadow matters related to Finance, Food security, Gaming, Immigration, Banking, Town and Country Planning, Shipping Registry, Health and Social Development, and Alternative Energy.

Hon Myron W. Walwyn (AL) will shadow matters related to Finance to Tourism, Education, Culture (Festival & Fairs), Financial Services and Macro-Economic Planning.

Hon Marlon A. Penn (R8) will shadow matters related to Health and Social Development, Housing Development, Trade, and Economic Affairs, Financial Services, along with information and Telecommunications Technology.

Senior legislator Hon Julian Fraser RA (R3) will shadow matters related to Alternative Energy and all subject matters falling under Communication and Works.

Hon Melvin M. Turnbull (R2) will shadow matters related to Natural Resources, National Health Insurance, Social Security, Lands, Climate Change, and Labour.

Hon Mather to shadow matters related to Education & Youth Affairs

And newcomer Hon Stacy Mather MBE (AL) will shadow matters related to Agriculture and Fisheries, Food Security, Education and Youth Affairs & Sports.

The Opposition is made up of members of Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM), National Democratic Party (NDP) and Progressives United (PU).