Loren Ryan-Rymer appointed as new Registrar of Interests

Loren Ryan-Rymer has been appointed as the new Registrar of Interests following the retirement of Phyllis Evans.

Ryan-Rymer has over 25 years of public service experience, including as the Human Resources Manager of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.

Governor Daniel Pruce expressed confidence in the appointment, stating, “Ryan-Rymer’s appointment comes at a pivotal time as we work to advance the systems that contribute to the effective administration of the legislation that guides the Registration of Interests.” He added, “As an experienced and qualified professional, I am confident that she will be able to lead well in this capacity.”

In her new role, Ryan-Rymer will document the financial interests and liabilities of elected members of the House of Assembly and specified officers in accordance with the Public Service Management Act. She will also serve as Clerk to the Standing Select Committee in the House of Assembly.

The government said Ryan-Rymer will ensure the Register of Interests is accurate, accessible, and continuously functioning as outlined by governing legislation.

“The Office of the Registrar of Interests plays a vital role in the work of the Public Service, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to its continued success,” Ryan-Rymer said while expressing gratitude for the opportunity.

Ryan-Rymer holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Andrews University, a Master of Arts in Education from the University of the Virgin Islands, a Diploma in Management from the Chartered Management Institute, and a Master’s Certificate in Organisational Effectiveness.

Ryan-Rymer’s appointment comes amid ongoing discussions about the transparency and accessibility of the Register of Interests.

In January 2024, the Cabinet agreed to implement proposed amendments, which included making the Register of Interests for members of the House of Assembly fully accessible to the public at no cost.

The amendments also proposed that the Register extend the requirement to declare interests to include senior public officers, specifically those at the level of Heads of Departments, Deputy Secretaries, and officers in Grades 19 to 21.

Because of previous resistance, Cabinet suggested that the Register for these officers remain private and accessible only to the Governor and Deputy Governor.

Former Governor John Rankin encouraged residents to inspect the Register, highlighting the public’s right to access this information under the Register of Interests (Amendment) Act 2022. He noted that while the Act allows for public inspection, it imposes certain restrictions, such as prohibiting copies or photographs of the Register’s contents.