Speaker Valerie Woods Elected Chairperson of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association’s Small Branches Network

Speaker of the House of Representatives Valerie Woods has been elected as the new chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association’s Small Branches Network. Woods was elected on November 4, at the 40th CPA Small Branches Conference held as part of the 67th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Sydney, Australia. As Chairperson, Speaker Woods will now represent Small Branches on the CPA International Executive Committee, providing an essential voice for smaller parliaments. In her acceptance speech, Chairperson Woods highlighted the critical role of small legislatures within the Commonwealth, underscoring the value of collaboration. She said, quote “Together, we can strengthen our voices and advocate effectively for the unique needs of our parliaments. I am honored to have your trust, and I pledge to work diligently to enhance our collective efforts,” end of quote. The CPA Secretariat is dedicated to addressing these unique needs, aiming to support nearly 180 member branches, of which 49 are classified as Small Branches.