Mrs. Bethsaida Smith-Hanley has been appointed Clerk of the House of Assembly, effective December 31, 2023.

As Clerk, Mrs. Smith-Hanley will oversee the daily operations of the House of Assembly, including the coordination of official functions, the management of House of Assembly sittings, the preparation of Order Papers as well as the supervision of all staff within the Office of the House of Assembly.                                    

Mrs. Smith Hanley has an extensive Public Service career, having most recently served as Assistant Secretary in the Cabinet Office, and Acting Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles. Throughout her career, she developed a love for leadership and the advancement of administration in the Public Service.

Deputy Governor, Mr. David D. Archer Jr. said, “Mrs. Smith-Hanley’s appointment as the Clerk of the House of Assembly is a forward advancement as we continue to transform the Public Service. Her experience in the Public Service has prepared her well to be successful in this role.”

Commenting on her appointment, the new Clerk said, “I am delighted and grateful for the opportunity to serve in this capacity. The role of Clerk is a vital one in the legislative work of the Government, and I am proud to be able to lend my hand in this way.”

Mrs. Smith-Hanley has earned a Bachelor of Science in Technical Management, with a concentration in Project Management from DeVry University, a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the Keller Graduate School of Management. Additionally, she has completed the Level 7 Diploma from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

The mission of the Office of the House of Assembly is to provide essential support services for Members in the exercise of their parliamentary functions, in an informed and efficient manner, and to inform the public, on an on-going basis, about the parliamentary procedures of the House of Assembly.