National Assembly to gain from rejoining CPA |21 August 2008
The theme of the conference was Expanding the role of parliament in global society: environment, development and security.
As a member of the CPA, Seychelles took part in the 28th Small Branches Conference where the various challenges facing these branches were discussed.
Other topics of discussion were: protecting the environment; dealing with conflict of interest and corruption in small states; meeting the challenges of holding a democratic election; and promoting the interests of small states in international institutions.
During the conference Dr Herminie met a number of people with whom he discussed ways to improve the parliamentary system of Seychelles and to urge support for further programmes to be organised by the CPA.
He also met CPA secretary general Dr William F. Shiji, and they discussed ways in which the association can help the National Assembly in boosting the skills of its parliamentarians and staff.
Secretary of the CPA’s UK branch Andrew Tuggey discussed the possibility of the association holding more workshops for MNAs.
Dr Herminie also sought support from the World Bank Institute, through its professional development programme for parliamentarians and staff.
“The visit has been tremendously fruitful to Seychelles now that we have regained full membership of the CPA,” said Dr Herminie.
“This comes at an opportune time when the National Assembly is revisiting itself, and aid from the CPA and other such organisations will go a long way in the capacity building process.
“MNAs and staff of the secretariat will benefit from the spin-off of Seychelles’ membership.”