By KEILE CAMPBELL

Tribune Staff Reporter

kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

THE 47th regional conference of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association will be held in New Providence from September 5 to 12, drawing more than 80 delegates from across the Caribbean, the Americas and the Atlantic.

Co-hosted by Senate President J Lashell Adderley and House Speaker Patricia Deveaux, the meeting will be held under the theme “Deepening Regional Democracy and Independent Parliament”.

At a press briefing yesterday, Ms Adderley said the gathering would allow parliamentarians to collaborate on shared concerns, build capacity and exchange good practice. “This conference offers vast opportunities for parliamentarians to collaborate on issues of mutual interest, build capacity and share good practice,” she said. “More importantly, we look forward to welcoming over 80 delegates to Nassau.”

Ms Deveaux said The Bahamas secured hosting duties after she nominated the country during a recent CPA meeting in Turks and Caicos. She added that the event is expected to have economic benefits through spending on hotels, restaurants and transportation.

Founded in 1911, the CPA is among the oldest Commonwealth organisations, comprising more than 180 branches across nine regions, and aims to promote knowledge of the constitutional, legislative, economic, social and cultural aspects of parliamentary democracy.

In addition to the main sessions, organisers confirmed two associated events: the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Conference and a Youth Parliament. The women’s conference, set for the first two days, will address gender representation in Parliament, caucus formation, gender-responsive budgeting and the impact of legislation through a gender lens. The Youth Parliament will debate a climate change resolution focused on reducing carbon footprints and advancing climate justice.

Mr Forbes said the Youth Parliament was one of the association’s major achievements, intended to prepare future leaders. “We get young people involved at an early stage, so that when it is time for the transition to the next generation, some people would have had practice,” he said.

Delegates are expected from 14 of the region’s 17 member parliaments. Jamaica and Guyana will not be represented because of general elections in those countries.

Ms Adderley thanked those assisting with preparations, including the CPA branch chair, the clerks of Parliament, the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and local vendors.

The Tribune understands the conference will be staged at Margaritaville and the British Colonial Hilton.

Officials said the regional meeting will reinforce ties across the Commonwealth and set the stage for further co-operation among member parliaments.