The Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, Mrs Bernie Goodwin, attended the Bi-annual CAPAC Conference that was hosted by the Parliament of Trinidad between the 9th and 10th June 2026 in Port of Spain, Trinidad. The main theme of the conference was Advancing Accountability: Strengthening the Independence, Capacity and Impact of the Public Accounts Committees across the Commonwealth. Delegates attended from all around the world, as far as Kiribati and Australia both in person and digitally.
Picture 1. Parliament Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
The conference included a number of seminars and workshops focussing on various topics such as the importance of functioning PACs, the issues and challenges faced by small branch PACs, Broadening Accountability through Lay Member inclusion, (presented by the FI PAC Chair, Mrs Bernie Goodwin) and the use of the Leader of the Opposition as Chair of PACs (it was noted this one only works if you actually have an opposition, a situation faced by delegates other than just the Falklands). We also discussed measures to ensure proper oversight, independence and following through to ensure recommendations were acted upon.
Picture 2. Falkland Islands PAC Chair, Mrs Bernie Goodwin
There were also opportunities for in person delegates to enjoy traditional Trinidadian hospitality at a Reception held in the main Parliament building, the Red House, including an informative tour of both upper and lower houses.
Picture 3. The Hon. Juan Watterson, Speaker of the House of Keys, Isle of Man Tynwald (Parliament) with Falkland Islands PAC Chair, Mrs Bernie Goodwin
Delegates who arrived early enough were also able to enjoy a short tour which included the Bamboo Cathedral and a taste of the famous Doubles, a traditional street food which was a fusion Indian and Mexican foods, a lentil dahl in a soft taco topped with very spicy sauces.
Picture 4. A visit to the Bamboo Cathedral
All in all, it was a good opportunity to meet other PAC members, explore differences and similarities and come together to find solutions to various issues. It turns out many PACs both large and small have similar problems and innovative solutions.
