Speaker of the House of Assembly Honourable Corine N. George-Massicote is attending the Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers Conference (COTSC 2025) in London. Photo: GIS/File

The Deputy Clerk of the House of Assembly, Mr Linton V. Leonard, is also attending the Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers Conference (COTSC 2025) in London. Photo: Team of Reporters/File

The conference will be held from May 13 to May 16, 2025, and will see a coming together of parliamentary leaders from across the Commonwealth Overseas Territories, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, discussion on best practices, and strengthening of inter-territorial cooperation.

Speaker Honourable Corine N. George-Massicote, according to a Government Information Service (GIS) press release on May 13, 2025, said the Territory’s participation in the meeting underscores the House of Assembly’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in parliamentary governance while advancing the interests of the Virgin Islands on the regional and international platforms.

Enhancing parliamentary procedures

Honourable George-Massicote said, “The conference serves as an invaluable opportunity to enhance parliamentary procedures, improve legislative efficiency, and foster democratic practices. This aligns with the house’s mission to provide essential support services for Members and to educate the public about parliamentary democracy.”  

The Speaker added, “We eagerly anticipate the insights and collaborations that will arise from the conference, contributing to the ongoing development and effective functioning of the Territory’s legislature. This engagement reflects the House’s vision to be recognised locally, regionally, and internationally as a leader in the provision of parliamentary services.” 

The House of Assembly said it remains dedicated to supporting members in the exercise of their parliamentary duties with informed and efficient services, while continually updating the public on its parliamentary procedures.