The Deputy Speaker, Hon. Pearlina McGaw-Lumsden, JP, MP, and Parliamentary Secretary responsible for Planning, Lands, Agriculture, House and Infrastructure; Education and Training; Culture and Heritage, Mrs. Julie Hunter, recently participated in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Small Branches Workshop held in Malé, Maldives, from 27^th to 29^th April 2026.

Hosted by the People’s Majlis of the Maldives in collaboration with the CPA Headquarters Secretariat, the workshop brought together parliamentarians from small jurisdiction across the Commonwealth under the theme “Strong and Independent Parliaments in Small Jurisdictions.”

The three-day programme provided a platform for delegates to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and explore practical approaches to strengthening parliamentary institutions. Discussions focused on a range of topics relevant to small legislatures, including parliamentary oversight, legislative independence, public engagement, effective governance, and the evolving role of Parliaments in meeting the needs of their communities.

Throughout the workshop, participants examined the unique opportunities and challenges faced by small jurisdictions and considered how Parliaments can continue to adapt, innovate, and uphold democratic principles while serving increasingly complex societies.

Deputy Speaker, Hon. Pearlina McGaw-Lumsden, welcomed the opportunity to engage with parliamentary colleagues from across the Commonwealth. “The workshop provided a valuable platform for exchanging experiences and gaining insights into the approaches adopted by other small jurisdictions. While our Parliaments may differ in size and structure, many of the challenges and opportunities we encounter are remarkably similar. The discussions reinforced the importance of maintaining strong, independent institutions that are responsive, transparent, and accountable to the people they serve.”

“Participating in this workshop offered meaningful insights into how Parliaments can strengthen their effectiveness while remaining connected to the communities they represent. The exchange of ideas and best practices among delegates was both informative and encouraging, and I look forward to applying the lessons learned in support of parliamentary development and good governance,” highlighted Mrs. Julie Hunter, Parliamentary Secretary.

The workshop formed part of the CPA Small Branches networks’ ongoing efforts to support Parliament and Legislatures serving populations of up to 500,000 people. The network provides opportunities for members to collaborate on issues of shared interest, exchange best practices, and strengthen parliamentary democracy across the Commonwealth.

The Parliament of the Cayman Islands remains an active member of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and continues to engage in programmes and initiatives that promote parliamentary excellence, professional development, and international cooperation.

Notes:

• The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) is an international community of 180 Parliaments at national, state, provincial and territorial level working together to deepen the Commonwealth’s commitment to the highest standards of democratic governance.
• The CPA Small Branches network represents the Parliaments in the small jurisdictions of the Commonwealth to identify their particular needs and requirements in parliamentary strengthening, development and cooperation. CPA Small Branches are classified as those jurisdictions (national and sub-national) with populations of up to 1 million inhabitants.