Official Photo of Speakers, Clerks and UK Representatives during the 5th COTSC 2026
The Parliament of the Cayman Islands successfully hosted the 5th Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference (COTSC) from 26th to 29th May 2026. The event brought together Speakers, Clerks, and Representatives from across the Overseas Territories and the United Kingdom to exchange ideas, share experiences, and discuss matters impacting legislatures throughout these regions.
Over the course of the two days, delegates participated in a series of discussions focused on strengthening parliamentary institutions, promoting good governance, and ensuring legislatures remain responsive to the evolving needs of their respective communities.
Key topics included the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence (AI) within parliamentary environments, governance reform, and the role of parliamentary commissions. Delegates also addressed other issues such as supporting the role of parliamentary commissions, supporting effective opposition and democratic accountability, constitutional reform, public confidence in democratic institutions, and maintaining legislative continuity during times of crisis and emergency.
An official statement issued at the end of the conference said: “The 5th Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference reaffirmed the importance of collaboration among the Overseas Territories legislatures and provided a valuable forum for sharing experiences, strengthening professional relationships, and exploring approaches to the opportunities facing parliamentary institutions today.”
It noted that the conference forms part of an ongoing commitment among Overseas Territories' legislatures to strengthen parliamentary practice, share expertise, and promote effective democratic governance.
MILLER: CAYMAN HONOURED TO HOST EVENT
Reflecting on the conference, Hon. D. Ezzard Miller, Speaker of the Parliament of the Cayman Islands, said: “The 5th Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference provides an important forum for parliamentary leaders to discuss issues of common interest, exchange experiences, and learn from one another.As legislatures continue to navigate an evolving environment, opportunities such as these help strengthen our institutions, reinforce democratic principles, and foster cooperation across the Overseas Territories.”
The Cayman Islands Speaker also remarked: “It was an honour for the Cayman Islands to host this year’s COTSC Conference and to welcome our colleagues from across the Territories and the United Kingdom.”
The conference commenced on Tuesday, 27th May, with a welcome reception hosted by Her Excellency the Governor, Mrs Jane Owen, providing delegates with an opportunity to meet with senior civil servants and members of the business community. An opening ceremony held at the House of Parliament on Wednesday, 28th May, marked the official commencement of the COTSC.
On Wednesday evening, delegates attended a dinner hosted by the Honourable D. Ezzard Miller, Speaker of the Parliament of the Cayman Islands. The visiting delegates were treated to a relaxed evening, which strengthened relationships across jurisdictions. Conference proceedings concluded on Thursday, 28th May, with a celebration of Caymanian culture, hosted by the Honourable Gary Rutty, Acting Premier, and the Honourable Isaac Rankine, Minister for Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage.
Delegates enjoyed an evening showcasing the Cayman Islands’ rich heritage through traditional storytelling, local musical performers, cultural displays, and authentic Caymanian cuisine prepared by community cooks. The event provided visitors with a memorable experience of Caymanian hospitality and traditions.
The event brought together Speakers and Clerks from Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, Turks and Caicos Islands, and the United Kingdom.
Participating Speakers included Hon. Tara Carter, Speaker of the House of Assembly of Anguilla; Hon. Dennis Lister, JP, MP, Speaker of the House of Assembly of Bermuda; Hon. Corine George-Massicote, Speaker of the House of Assembly of the British Virgin Islands; Hon. D. Ezzard Miller, Speaker of the Parliament of the Cayman Islands; Hon. Judge Karen Ramagge Phillips, GMH, MP, Speaker of the Gibraltar Parliament; Hon. Marjorie Smith, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Montserrat; Hon. Gordon Burton, MP, Speaker of the House of Assembly of the Turks and Caicos Islands; and Ms. Nusrat Ghani, MP, Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons of the United Kingdom.
09 Aug, 2023
14 May, 2026
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