Kathy Lightbourne-Simmons Resigns As MP
[Updated] Kathy Lightbourne Simmons has “submitted a letter of resignation as the Member of Parliament for Constituency 36 Sandys North,” the Speaker has confirmed.
A spokesperson said, “The official process for a Member to resign from the House Assembly is to inform the Speaker in writing of such.
“With that said, Speaker Lister can confirm that Mrs. Kathy Simmons has submitted a letter of resignation as the Member of Parliament for constituency 36 Sandys North.
“Speaker Lister thanks Mrs. Simmons for her serve to her constituency and her country. And offers her his best regards.”
This follows a day after it was confirmed that she had resigned from Cabinet, along with another MP. Her resignation will trigger a by-election, unless a general election is called before the time frame the by-election must be called in.
Update 4.59pm: Opposition Leader Jarion Richardson said, “The departure of the Attorney-General from representing Constituency 36 is a relief.
“In her time, Somerset has fallen into a sad, deplorable state. Closed businesses, trees growing out of buildings, roads overgrown with weeds, over-extended local policing and anti-social conduct are now everywhere in what was a thriving community.
“There’s been a general neglect of the community and their needs. We note that during the whole school closing debate, Somerset was left to fend for themselves as their Member of Parliament sat quietly on the sidelines.
“The prize that is the West End is choked with evidence of failed policies. We are glad that the former Attorney-General has stepped down from C36 – now we can focus on rebuilding Somerset.”
Update: A spokesperson said, “The Progressive Labour Party [PLP] announces with a mixture of gratitude and sadness the retirement of Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Kathy-Lynn Simmons, JP, MP, from her roles in the Cabinet and as the Member of Parliament for Constituency 36. Attorney General Simmons has decided to step down after seven years of service, marking her tenure as the longest-serving political Attorney General in Bermuda’s history.
“Throughout her distinguished career, Former AG Simmons has been an advocate for justice, equality, and the protection of Bermuda’s most vulnerable citizens. Her legislative accomplishments are a testament to her dedication and vision for a fairer society. Notable among these are:
- “The enactment of comprehensive sex offender management legislation, ensuring the safety and security of our communities through notification of the release of sexual offenders upon the completion of their sentences.
- “Tougher sentences and stronger protection against the sexual exploitation of minors, including adding the offences of luring and grooming.
- “The restoration of the pupillage programme within the Ministry of Legal Affairs, fostering the next generation of legal professionals.
- “The implementation of no-fault divorce, modernising and humanising the legal process for all Bermudians.
- “The introduction of revenge porn legislation giving new protections for Bermudians against being victimised via electronic means.
- “Implementation of a litigation guardian framework to represent children during legal proceedings.
- “Modernising the selection of jurors for criminal trials to ensure fairness and balance.
- “Expungement of criminal records for simple possession of Cannabis.
“Former MP Simmons’ unwavering commitment to justice and legal reform has left an indelible mark on Bermuda’s legal landscape. Her leadership, insight, and compassion have been invaluable to the PLP and the people of Bermuda.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to former MP Simmons for her tireless service and dedication. Her contributions have not only advanced our legal system but have also profoundly impacted the lives of countless individuals. As she retires from this phase of public service, we wish her the very best in her future endeavours and look forward to her continued contributions to our community.”
Update: A spokesperson said, “The OBA is demonstrating what could best be described as political schizophrenia. Yesterday they described the retirement of MP Kathy Lynn Simmons as adding “…to the growing anxiety in Bermuda.” Today they are celebrating her retirement as “…a relief,”
“Which is it?
“If the OBA can’t hold a position for 24 hours on a matter as simple as this can they be trusted on bigger decisions?
“The simple reality is that the OBA has never cared about Sandys and is hoping to divide the community with the simple purpose of adding another OBA MP to their roster, dedicated to opening the immigration floodgates, prioritising the elite and privileged over the average Bermudian and in slashing government jobs and services.
“Bermudians, in general, and the people of Sandys, in particular, know what the OBA is about, what they stand for and who they truly represent.
“The outgoing AG and MP for Constituency 36 has helped move all of us closer to the better, fairer,
Bermuda Bermudians deserve by:
“Expunging convictions for simple possession of cannabis under 7 grams
- “Introducing legislation mandating the notification of release of sex offenders upon completion of their sentences
- “Introducing tougher sentences for the sexual exploitation of minors
- “Introducing Revenge Porn legislation
- “Modernising the jury selection process
- “Introducing no-fault divorce legislation
“In contrast, the OBA
- “Increased payroll taxes on workers to the highest level in history while doubling the tax on electricity.
- “Made seniors wait 4 years for a pension increase
- “Saddled Bermuda with over $200 million of debt due to their failed Morgan’s Point Guarantee
- “Sold off our airport to non-Bermudians and burdened our taxpayers with a binding decades-long contract that has cost taxpayers over $50 million
- “Slashed scholarships and opportunities for training for Bermudians
- “Forced civil servants to take pay cuts while providing millions in tax relief to billionaires for the America’s Cup
- “Attempted to give children of guest workers the right to compete with our Bermudian children for jobs and opportunities
- “Attempted to slash access to mammograms for women
“Despite that record, the OBA has never apologised, never moved away from those controversial stances and never repudiated their failed policies. We all know that they would do it all again and worse if given the chance.
“The Progressive Labour Party will field a candidate committed to not only Constituency 36, but to Bermudians in every constituency. A candidate who will stand against the OBA’s agenda and will be a strong voice for Bermudians.”
The “Government Spokesperson” will be having a fit putting together a response to Jarion’s comments. No wonder it has taken so long. They had better get used to such responses as it seems the exodus is just beginning.
Somerset isn’t one specific constituency. It is many.
How could she be the blame for all that is wrong?
Seems that yesterday her resignation was catastrophic due to the AG being responsible for road rage and crime (which is errant nonsense). Now today, we hear something different.
Kathy Lightbourne Simmons is the longest serving Attorney-General since politically appointed Attorneys-General started (following the 1998 election). For that she should be remembered.