Senator Brittney Galvez and House Speaker Valerie Woods Represent Belize at Commonwealth Parliamentary Programme

Senator Brittney Galvez and House Speaker Valerie Woods have represented Belize at a five-day parliamentary development programme in Guernsey, focused on strengthening the work of legislators across the Commonwealth.  The Advanced Parliamentary Development Residency Programme concluded today in St. Peter Port. It was hosted by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association through its Parliamentary Academy, in partnership with Guernsey’s States of Deliberation.  Galvez attended as a participant, while Woods was one of three Caribbean parliamentarians invited to serve as mentors. According to the National Assembly, Woods’ invitation recognised her parliamentary experience as a senator and House Speaker, along with her leadership in the CPA Small Branches Network and previous service in its Women’s Parliamentary Network.  The sessions covered lawmaking, parliamentary debate, public outreach, media engagement and oversight. Participants worked through simulations, group exercises and individual discussions to identify practical ways to address challenges in their respective parliaments. They also visited the neighbouring island of Sark and its legislative assembly.  The National Assembly says Belize’s participation provided an opportunity to strengthen parliamentary skills, exchange ideas and build professional relationships across the Commonwealth, supporting the continued modernisation of the institution.  The delegation is scheduled to return to Belize on Sunday.  The programme was held in St. Peter Port, the capital of Guernsey, a British Crown Dependency in the English Channel near France.