House of Assembly Speaker praised by elected leaders
House of Assembly Speaker Corine George-Massicotte
Elected leaders in the BVI have disagreed on many things in recent years — but one rare point of unity has emerged: House of Assembly Speaker Corine George-Massicotte is a good leader.
George-Massicotte is picking up praise from both sides of the political aisle for her leadership in guiding the landmark House of Assembly Management Bill, 2025, which is now being finalised by legislators.
If passed, the proposed law would allow the House to handle its own financial, administrative and human-resource matters, reducing reliance on central government and strengthening the separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches.
It is a law that has long been championed by Deputy Premier Julian Fraser. While Fraser has picked up his own praises, Massicotte has been singled out for leading the behind-the-scenes work on the historic bill.
Critical thinker
During the during the recent debate on the bill, Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley lauded the Speaker as a “young, dynamic and critical thinker” who has “led the way in modernising the House of Assembly.” He described the legislation as “an act of self-determination,” saying the move will help the territory shed outdated practices inherited from its colonial past.
Similarly, Opposition Leader Myron Walwyn also commended George-Massicotte’s leadership, saying it has elevated “the dignity and the purpose of the House of Assembly.” He told the Speaker that her “vision and unwavering dedication” have driven long-discussed reforms that others only spoke about but never achieved. “With the passage of this bill, we are cementing your legacy,” Walwyn said, noting that the Speaker “actually got it done.”
Second District Representative Melvin “Mitch” Turnbull was equally complimentary, reminding the public that the Speaker assumed the chair in 2022 during one of the most turbulent periods in the Virgin Islands’ political history — following the arrest of a sitting premier, the resignation of the previous speaker, and the looming threat of the suspension of the constitution.
“Madam Speaker, you walked into a storm,” Turnbull said. “But you remained calm, professional and unwavering in your sense of duty.”
Stark contrast
George-Massicotte’s measured approach has won respect across party lines — a stark contrast to the controversies that surrounded her predecessor, Julian Willock. His tenure as Speaker from 2019 to 2022 was marked by disputes with members, public clashes over procedural rulings, and a failed court injunction against the Commission of Inquiry’s legal team that damaged relations with the United Kingdom.
Amid growing tensions and reports that the UK was unwilling to engage with him following the Commission of Inquiry’s findings, Willock resigned in May 2022. His departure paved the way for George-Massicotte’s appointment, which many viewed as a chance to restore professionalism and credibility to the legislature.
Since then, she has quietly reshaped the image of the House — emphasising transparency, accountability and modern governance. Her leadership has helped stabilise the institution and repair strained relationships with external partners.
Premier Wheatley said the Management Bill represents a continuation of that reform effort, placing the Virgin Islands on firmer footing toward legislative independence. “This is a bold move in line with other bold moves we have made,” he said.
For many observers, the widespread praise from both government and opposition members reflects how far the House has come under George-Massicotte’s watch — from a period of turmoil and mistrust to one of order, reform and renewed confidence.
As the Management Bill heads toward passage, lawmakers agree on one point: its success will stand as a key part of Speaker George-Massicotte’s legacy.
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Julian Willock was a disgrace as Speaker. If the people of the 3rd district elect him they will be ashamed of him. The man has no guardrails. I could never forget his horrible conduct before the commission of inquiry. I was ashamed for him and for the office of the speaker. Everyday he sat a speaker with that ridiculously looking wig on his head reminded me of how far we have sunken as a people…
The man just wanted to be heard in silence.
this is so fake we can see right through it. Mr Willock is a hero in many quarters in the British virgin islands.
The people of sea cows bay will send him back to the House where no one can fire he
LONG Live Julian Willock our local prince
Wiggo himself just made this post. He is truly a basket case.
Wasn’t Wiggo arrested and charged for a criminal offense? Did he report that on his yellow site?
Heard them cases got thrown out this year thing to tell the king
Lies. The court case is still there against him and the evidence is strong.
Ok this speaker ain’t the wig one with all his biases, this speaker seem objective so we must placate her to gain control over her so she don’t give the alliance a good footing on the floor of HOA because their polemics are very rational and clear to the people.
One of the best speakers we have had was Mr Willock just talk to former members , staff at the HoA and others. His positive attitude and legacy will live on
Can’t wait until the people of the the third district return him to the house of assembly at least we trust him with our children unlike others
No surprise there now she doing their bidding.
She was independent.
She started very well.
But now has fallen under the spell.
Not like the appallingly bad, fatally flawed winged one from the yellow belly site who was a territorial disgrace in the COI.
But, she need to find he feet again and not make this the HOA14.
There was once a push to install Dancia Penn as Speaker, on the premise that George Massicotte might not command respect from Myron Walwyn and Julian Fraser. Today’s record speaks for itself. I always trusted in George Massicotte’s capacity and judgment.”
the house gone to the dogs they need to stop the fake praise in public and saying something else in private
Mr. 3 cases of water per school is sick in his head. A whole ceremony to give 3 cases of water to 3 schools. Total value of the contribution is $0. The water was donated by one Mart the value of which is about $45. He need a clout
Get your facts straight please, it was 4 cases per school.
the real boss lady
Bewrae of Forger George.Onlu one person matters herself.