Parliamentary Secretary in Dominica
The Parliamentary Secretary in Dominica’s governmental framework, serves as an essential support role within the ministries. Although not part of Cabinet, Parliamentary Secretaries strengthen government operations by enhancing the communication and coordination between ministers, parliament, and the public.
Role and Responsibilities of a Parliamentary Secretary
The President appoints Parliamentary Secretaries on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. Their primary function is to assist Ministers in managing their portfolios, particularly by supporting legislative responsibilities, constituency outreach, and departmental tasks.
They often represent Ministers in the House of Assembly, present routine policy matters, and liaise with local authorities. In ministries such as the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development, Ministry of Public Works, Public Utilities and Digital Economy, and Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, Parliamentary Secretaries play an integral role in supporting national programs and public engagement.
Their outreach often touches vulnerable communities impacted by issues such as landslides, limited services in Coastal Communities, and local development concerns in fishing villages and the west coast.
Comparison with Ministers of State
Although their responsibilities may appear similar, Parliamentary Secretaries differ from Ministers of State in scope and authority. Ministers of State are junior ministers with executive powers and can attend Cabinet sessions. In contrast, Parliamentary Secretaries are not part of Cabinet and do not make binding decisions but instead function to assist, represent, and support.
Both positions are crucial in ensuring that ministries function effectively, especially during high-demand periods or national emergencies. Their collaboration becomes critical in executing strategies aligned with initiatives such as the National Resilience Development Strategy 2030 (NRDS).
Constitutional and Administrative Framework
Under Dominica’s Constitution, the position is established to support the efficient administration of government duties and foster broader engagement within Parliament. Section 59 of the Constitution enables the appointment of Parliamentary Secretaries as an intermediate layer of support in governance.
This role has become increasingly relevant in recent years, as the Government of Dominica prioritizes inclusion, accountability, and decentralization. Parliamentary Secretaries often act as direct points of contact with communities and local councils, such as those administered under the Village Council Ordinance or observed during local government month.
Current Parliamentary Secretaries (2025)
As of 2025, the following individuals serve as Parliamentary Secretaries in Dominica:
- Hon. Fenella Wenham: Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training and National Excellence, with specific responsibility for Education Reform and Human Resource Development.
- Hon. Darron Lloyd: Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment, with specific responsibility for Constituency Empowerment.
- Hon. LaKeyia Joseph: Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy, with specific responsibility for Development of Community Agro Enterprises.
- Senator Kent Edwards: Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services, with particular responsibility for Community and Home Care.
These appointments reflect the government’s commitment to inclusive governance and the effective delivery of services at the community level.
Connection to National Development and Reform
Many Parliamentary Secretaries are involved in delivering projects funded through national and regional frameworks, such as the European Development Fund, the Basic Needs Trust Fund, and the Digital Economy Development Plan. Their roles may include monitoring community-level implementation, assisting with public sensitization, and participating in strategic planning sessions hosted by ministries.
Whether supporting climate resilience projects, promoting school rehabilitation through the China-Aid Project of Schools Reconstruction, or responding to constituency-specific issues after major storms during Dominica’s Hurricane Season, these officials remain vital to the continuity and relevance of public administration.