Post-Election Seminar Strengthens Parliamentary Capacity in the Cayman Islands

The Parliament of the Cayman Islands successfully hosted its Post-Election Seminar from Wednesday, 22nd October to Friday, 24th October 2025, bringing together Members of Parliament, Parliamentary Officials, and delegates from the Commonwealth to share knowledge, strengthen democratic practices, and explore new tools for effective governance. Organised in partnership with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association United Kingdom, the three-day seminar featured a full programme of learning sessions. Representatives from the Bermuda Parliament, States Assembly of Jersey, Scottish Parliament, and the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago joined CPA UK delegates to support the training and engagement of Cayman’s parliamentarians. The seminar officially commenced on Wednesday, 22nd October, setting a collaborative tone for the days that followed. Participants engaged in early sessions on the role of the CPA and CPA UK, as well as the evolution of parliamentary democracy in the Cayman Islands, which Hon Sir Alden McLaughlin led, — a timely reflection for both new and returning Members. Former MP, Arden McLean provided valuable insight into the opportunities and challenges of being an MP. “This seminar is a vital part of preparing our MPs to lead with knowledge, integrity, vision, and cooperation” said Hon. Ezzard Miller, Speaker of the Parliament of the Cayman Islands. “By learning from experienced parliamentarians across the Commonwealth, we strengthen our own democratic processes and reaffirm our commitment to serving the people of the Cayman Islands.” Over the course of the seminar, participants explored a wide range of parliamentary topics including parliamentary questions, and the role and remit of committees. Mr. Woody Foster, Commission for Standards in Public Life and Mrs. Elisabeth Lees, AntiCorruption Commission of the Cayman Islands, provided information on their commissions and facilitated the discussion on behaviour, ethics, and standards in public life. The seminar also looked toward the future of parliamentary engagement. One session examined the use of artificial intelligence in parliaments, discussing both opportunities and challenges of emerging technologies. This was followed by an exploration of public outreach and the role of MEDIA RELEASE House of Parliament 33 Fort Street, PO Box 890 George Town, Grand Cayman Cayman Islands, KY1-1103 PARLIAMENT MEDIA RELEASE | Pg. 2 social media, highlighting the importance of communicating parliamentary work clearly and effectively to the public. “We’re honoured to support the Cayman Islands Parliament through this seminar,” said Luke Fearon, Programme Officer at CPA UK. “The discussions have been thoughtful, forward-looking and rooted in a shared commitment to strengthening parliamentary democracy.” For the first time, the Cayman Islands Youth Parliament was invited to participate in the PostElection Seminar. Youth Parliamentarians joined delegates on Friday, 24 October, for a Q&A session, sharing their perspectives and engaging directly with parliamentarians. Their inclusion marked a significant step in fostering civic participation among young people. “This year’s seminar has been an opportunity to strengthen the foundation of our Parliament while looking ahead to the next generation of leaders,” said Mrs. Zena Merren-Chin, Clerk and Chief Officer of the Parliament of the Cayman Islands. “Bringing the Youth Parliament into the conversation is an investment in the future of parliamentary democracy.” The seminar concluded with a closing dinner that celebrated the shared learning, strong partnerships, and commitment to collaboration across Commonwealth parliaments. The Post-Election Seminar forms part of the Parliament’s ongoing efforts to build capacity and promote good governance. It reflects the continued partnership between the Parliament of the Cayman Islands and CPA UK, reinforcing a shared vision of accessible, accountable, and modern democratic institutions