ROAD TOWN, Tortola, Virgin Islands — Speaker of the House of Assembly, Honourable Corine N. George-Massicote, and Clerk of the House of Assembly, Mrs. Bethsaida Smith-Hanley, represented the Virgin Islands at the 5th Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference (COTSC2026), held in the Cayman Islands from May 26 to 29.

Hosted by the Parliament of the Cayman Islands, the conference brought together Speakers, Clerks and parliamentary representatives from the British Overseas Territories and the United Kingdom to examine the future of parliamentary democracy and the evolving role of legislatures in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.

Mrs. Smith-Hanley, who oversees the day-to-day administration of the House of Assembly and coordinates its official sittings and functions, accompanied Speaker George-Massicote throughout the conference.

This year’s discussions focused on strengthening parliamentary institutions through greater transparency, enhanced public trust and modern governance practices. Delegates also exchanged ideas on improving legislative procedures, embracing digital innovation and addressing the unique constitutional arrangements of the British Overseas Territories and the wider Commonwealth.

The Virgin Islands London Office, under the leadership of the Director and United Kingdom Representative, supported the Territory’s participation in the conference and engaged alongside international counterparts on issues of governance and parliamentary development.

The collaboration reflects the Virgin Islands’ ongoing commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, fostering international partnerships and ensuring that its parliamentary processes continue to evolve in line with global best practices.

Reflecting on the conference, Clerk of the House of Assembly Mrs. Bethsaida Smith-Hanley described the event as a valuable opportunity to both showcase the work of the Virgin Islands House of Assembly and learn from parliamentary colleagues across the Overseas Territories and the United Kingdom.

She noted that discussions surrounding digital governance, legislative transparency and citizen engagement would help shape future parliamentary procedures, the management of House sittings and communication with the public.

Mrs. Smith-Hanley added that by sharing experiences and learning from other jurisdictions, the House of Assembly is better positioned to strengthen the institution of Parliament by ensuring it has the capacity, resources and systems necessary to effectively support the Territory’s legislative work.

The Virgin Islands delegation also expressed appreciation to the Parliament of the Cayman Islands and the organisers of COTSC2026 for hosting what they described as a forward-looking forum that encouraged collaboration and the exchange of ideas among parliamentary leaders.