Politicians Pay Tribute To Former MP Kim Young
Politicians from both sides of the aisle paid tribute to former Cabinet Minister and Paget East MP Kim Young, with many noting her work on women’s issues and other important matters.
Opposition Leader Jeanne Atherden said Mrs Young was “very passionate about the things that were important, whether it be the family services, the women’s issues and anything which related to Bermuda politics. Kim had that heart for Bermuda.”
OBA MP Dr Grant Gibbons, who was Mrs Young’s running mate, noted she was trained as a nurse, and “her caring nature followed through in her approach to politics.”
“She was passionate about gender equality,” Dr Gibbons added. “She was very concerned about family issues and children.”
Junior Minister of Finance Wayne Furbert also extended his condolences, saying that Mrs Young “stood up for many issues, she fought very hard for women’s issues.”
OBA MP Cole Simons also extended condolences, saying Mrs Young was always involved and kept a keen eye on what was happening in Bermuda, and she had a “passion for young people, passion for seniors.”
Deputy Speaker Derrick Burgess also extended his condolences to the Young family, as did Health Minister Kim Wilson who said she admired Mrs Young for her work in the community and her commitment to women’s issues.
Deputy OBA Leader Leah Scott said she found Mrs Young to be “very warm and passionate about all her causes,” while PLP MP Kim Swan said he always “admired her caring spirit.”
OBA MP Patricia Gordon-Pamplin also paid tribute, saying Mrs Young was a person who “didn’t hesitate to assist anyone” and she “exuded the care and concern she had for social issues in Bermuda.”
Premier David Burt also expressed his condolences and noted Mrs Young’s contributions to the island, and said he joins with all members of the House in sending condolences to the Young family.
A PLP spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Progressive Labour Party would like to acknowledge the passing of former UBP Minister Margaret [Kim] Young, who served as Minister without Portfolio in 1998.
“Following the PLP victory in November 1998 she continued to serve her constituents of Paget East and served as Shadow Minister for Health and Family Services and spokeswoman for Environment and Women’s Issues.
“In her personal capacity, we thank her for her service to Bermuda as a nurse at KEMH, and for her contributions to the Human Rights Commission, Teen Services and the Bermuda Hospitals Board, among others.
“We extend our condolences to the Young family during this time. May their memories of her comfort them.”
Speaker of the House Dennis Lister also extended his condolences, and after giving their tributes, Parliamentarians stood in the House of Assembly and observed a minute of silence.
