While she may not be able to preside over every House session due to ongoing cancer treatment, Speaker of the House Valerie Woods remains focused on progress. In today’s ceremonial sitting, Woods confirmed that newly appointed Deputy Speaker Marconi Leal Junior will step in when needed. But she also shared her excitement about the future of parliament—highlighting the soon-to-be-unveiled renovated chamber, complete with upgraded tools, revised Standing Orders, and a new Code of Conduct to better guide the work of the House. Despite personal challenges, Woods’ message was one of optimism and readiness for a more modern, accountable legislative process.
Valerie Woods, Speaker of the House
“ Later this year, after 55 years since the construction of the National Assembly Building, we anticipate the opening of a newly renovated and more accessible contemporary space first. Furthermore, this year, we should witness the implementation of a user-friendly parliamentary website. And the first ever Parliament’s distinctive logo for the legislature as a separate branch of government. Additionally, during this session of the House of Representatives, we should be revising the Standing Orders and establish a code of conduct. In regard to the administrative management under the stewardship of the clerk, we will be implementing the recommendations from the planning tools for enhanced governance, which were made possible with the assistance of the U.N.D.P. Belize office based on the review conducted by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.”
