With Wednesday marking the start of the official period of mourning for the late government minister, Shahine Robinson, members of parliament shared stories of remembrance. Prime Minister Andrew Holness described Robinson as a true leader who dutifully fulfilled the pledge of serving her constituents.
“She took the constituency organization and constituency representation seriously. Her mantra was if we are going to be good politicians, we have to know our people. She lived her sage words and would often say if you don’t go into politics to serve, it doesn’t make any sense.”
Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Peter Phillips in paying tribute, says Robinson gave service to her community and her influence extended beyond the constituency she served.
“What struck me most of all about Shahine Robinson was this quality of goodwill that she extended to all. She did it in her personal relations, her personal relationships were not restricted to people of her own political affiliation.”
The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sports, Olivia Grange also provided her remembrance.
“Jamaica has lost one of her most ardent and compassionate women in leadership. Mr. Speaker, the people of North East St Ann, especially, mourn the loss of a woman who not only became family but was mother to many and aunt to numerous others and ultimately comforter and provider to some many others.”
Amid the tributes being given, a call was made for a national honor to be bestowed on Robinson, the call coming from the opposition, Horace Dalley.
“There was a Prime Minister who said after serving twenty years we must be given a little thing called CD; she’s short of that and I’m hoping that honor will be bestowed upon her even though she is short the twenty years.”
Dalley is of the belief that a moment of silence and tributes cannot be sufficient for a politician that served.
The official period of mourning for Shahine Robinson ends on Tuesday, June 16. There will be three days of public viewing closed casket in keeping with wishes of her family beginning Thursday, June 11 – and condolence books will be opened to parliament and members of the public.
