The House of Assembly has urged the public to remain patient as members prepare a formal response to the Auditor General’s findings on the financing of the 2024 public service salary increases.
The Special Report was presented to the House on September 16. It was prepared under section 20 of the Audit Act, 2003, which authorises the Auditor General to submit such reports to the Governor for presentation to the House of Assembly.
In a press release, the House acknowledged public concern, particularly regarding compensation for elected officials.
“The House notes the public interest and concern expressed following media coverage, particularly regarding compensation for elected officials,” the statement read.
The House said it will now review the report in detail and issue a comprehensive response in line with parliamentary rules.
“With the report now officially before the House, members will undertake a thorough review of its findings, engage in detailed discussions, and provide a formal response consistent with established parliamentary procedures,” it stated.
The press release stressed that the legislature remains committed to openness.
“The House reiterates its dedication to transparency, accountability, and proper due process,” it said. “An official response, inclusive of comprehensive information for the public, will be issued in due course.”
The statement also appealed directly to residents.
“The House appeals for the patience of the people of the Virgin Islands as the matter proceeds through the appropriate parliamentary channels and assures that the concerns raised will be addressed,” it said.
The Auditor General’s report has drawn attention after revealing that legislators approved a massive salary increase for themselves. According to the report, the overall emoluments for House of Assembly members rose by 119 percent, climbing from $681,000 to $1.49 million. The increases were decided in December 2023 after members chose the highest scale recommended in a consultancy review.
The Auditor General also noted that Cabinet submissions did not clearly disclose the total costs involved, including long-term implications for pensions and allowances. The Ministry of Finance had earlier flagged a funding gap of about $25 million linked to the wider public service salary adjustments.
The House has now promised that the findings will be reviewed carefully before any formal pronouncement is made.
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