4 days ago
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The Government of the Cayman Islands has introduced the Parliament (Management) Amendment Bill, 2026, aimed at strengthening parliamentary democracy and modernising legislative operations.
According to a government statement, the bill seeks to formalise the role of the opposition and provide the opposition leader with dedicated office space and staffing to better perform constitutional duties.
André Ebanks said the measure recognises the importance of a strong opposition in ensuring accountability and improving policymaking.
“An effective opposition benefits the entire country by broadening representation and strengthening the legislative process,” he said, adding that the reforms are part of efforts to modernise government as parliamentary responsibilities expand.
The bill also increases support for all 19 constituency offices, which serve as key links between elected representatives and the public. Proposed changes include upgrading the role of constituency assistants to constituency managers and raising the monthly constituency allowance from $5,000 to $6,500 to reflect rising operational costs.
Ebanks said the improvements underscore the government’s commitment to constituency work and community engagement, while also helping to attract more young people and women into politics.
The legislation builds on the Parliament Management Act, 2020, which established the Parliament Management Commission, and follows a 2022 amendment that introduced constituency assistants for all Members of Parliament.
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