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Delegates from the Parliament of the Cayman Islands attended the 72nd Westminster Seminar last month, organised by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association UK (CPA UK). This flagship event, held in London from 11th to 15th March, served as a platform for parliamentarians from across the Commonwealth to delve into critical topics shaping effective legislative governance. The seminar’s key outcome was to enable delegates to enhance their ability to effectively scrutinise, represent, and deliver oversight in their respective legislatures.
The representatives from the Cayman Islands were: Hon. Sabrina Turner, MP, Minister of Health & Wellness and Home Affairs; Mr. Christopher Saunders, MP, independent member of the Opposition; and, Ms. Nordra Walcott, Assistant Clerk. The Caymanian representatives were joined by nearly 70 delegates from 28 legislatures, from as far as Australia, Asia Pacific, and Africa, to our neighbours in Bermuda and Jamaica.
Hon. Turner expressed her appreciation of the experience, stating that "the seminar provided an invaluable platform for exchanging knowledge, best practices, and fostering meaningful dialogue among parliamentarians and parliamentary staff”, adding that she “returned to Cayman inspired and equipped with insights to further strengthen our parliamentary processes and serve our constituents with diligence."
The week-long seminar began with Commonwealth Day celebrations, including a seat inside Westminster Abbey for the Service of Celebration attended by members of the Royal Family and dignitaries. The remainder of the hallmark seminar brought Parliamentarians and staff together for four days of panelist presentations spanning a wide array of topics around the broader theme of effective parliaments.
Amidst engaging breakout sessions, Hon. Turner and Mr. Saunders participated in discussions on Parliamentary Systems Analysis, the Responsibility of Members in Effective Parliaments, and Pressures and Challenges facing MPs. They also explored topics such as Leadership and Communications Skills, Democracy in Action, and Codes of Conduct, gaining valuable insights to enhance their legislative roles and responsibilities.
Drawing on her expertise, Hon. Turner was asked to be a guest panelist for a session focused on the pressures that Parliamentarians face; the Minister shared insights with delegates on the balance parliamentarians must find between their legislature, government posts, political parties, and constituencies.
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Simultaneously, Ms. Walcott and other parliamentary officers attended sessions tailored to their expertise, including discussions on the responsibility of Officials, Parliamentary Systems Analysis, and Managing and Balancing effective working relationships with elected Members. They also discussed Time and Resource Management, as well as Leadership and Communications Skills, crucial for the unique role of supporting the efficient functioning of parliamentary processes.
In shared sessions, both Members and Clerks collaborated with counterparts from across the Commonwealth on pertinent issues such as Committees, Reports, Scrutinizing the Executive, Diversity and Inclusion, and Public Outreach and Social Media. These sessions facilitated invaluable knowledge-sharing and networking opportunities, strengthening parliamentary ties and fostering greater collaboration among neighbouring nations.
Distinguished guest speakers provided invaluable insights and perspectives, enriching the seminar discussions and inspiring collective action towards parliamentary excellence. These panelists included: The Speaker of the UK House of Commons, the Rt. Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Members from the House of Lords and House of Commons, and esteemed Members and Clerks from across the Commonwealth.
As part of the educational seminar experience, delegates had the privilege of visiting the Welsh Parliament (Senedd Cymru) in Cardiff, further broadening their understanding of different parliamentary systems and practices outside of the House of Commons. The lessons learned and connections established at the 72nd Westminster Seminar will serve the Parliament Management Commission as it continues its journey towards enhancing legislative governance.