Mrs. Bethsaida Smith-Hanley is the new clerk of the House of Assembly.
The Office of the Deputy Governor announced the appointment in a media release on Monday, January 8 which confirmed that it came into effect on December 31, 2023.
Commenting on her appointment, Smith-Hanley expressed that she is grateful to serve in the capacity of Clerk of the House of Assembly.
She said, “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.”
As part of her responsibilities, 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.”
Smith Hanley most recently served as Assistant Secretary in the Cabinet Office and Acting Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles.
In addition to earning a Bachelor of Science in Technical Management, with a concentration in Project Management from DeVry University, she has a Master’s of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from the Keller Graduate School of Management.
Additionally, Smith-Hanley has completed the Level 7 Diploma from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).
Deputy Governor David Archer Jr. described Smith-Hanley’s appointment as a forward advancement as the government continues to transform the Public Service.
“Her experience in the Public Service has prepared her well to be successful in this role,” Archer stated.
The position became vacant after the previous Clerk of the House of Assembly Ms. Phyllis Evans stepped down from the role after 14 years to serve as the new Registrar of Interests.