Supeme Court rules former Governor acted legally and responsibly
Former Turks and Caicos Governor Ric Todd acted properly changing a regulation to ease decision making about a proposed dolphinarium.
Former TCI Governor Ric Todd
On 17 September the TCI Supreme Court dismissed an application for judicial review brought against the Governor by a local consortium. Their suggestion that the then Governor had acted illegally in changing a regulation under the Fisheries Protection Ordinance was rejected. The Judge remarked that Todd’s actions had actually helped improve the law, which she regarded as vague.
The Court found that the Governor acted reasonably in the exercise of his discretion by making the amending regulation. This decision is further vindicated by the fact that the current TCI Government is supportive of building a dolphinarium in the Islands.
It was also made clear that the Governor’s evidence showed extensive consultation within TCI Government and the reason for making the change when he did was based on improving the economy and also to ensure the Dolphin proposal would remain open for proper political and public consideration: any decision would be subject to the full extent of the TCI planning process.
Importantly too, in court attorney Peter McKnight withdrew his and his clients’ assertions that the Governor acted in any way improperly, making very clear that these claims were retracted by them.
A group of local organisations represented by Chuck Hesse (as Applicant), were the Turks and Caicos Society for the Prevention Cruelty to Animals Ltd., Pride Ltd., Turks and Caicos Reef Fund and Providenciales Chamber of Commerce brought this action.
The Court’s written reasons for the announced decision will be provided by the Court once the written reasons are delivered to the Parties.