Government House announced the resignation of Independent Senator Michelle Simmons, effective August 31, 2022.
In a statement released earlier today (Aug 26), Governor Rena Lalgie said: “I take this opportunity to pay tribute to the distinguished service, commitment and professionalism of Michelle Simmons as one of Bermuda’s Independent Senators over the past five years.
“Being an independent Senator is challenging and requires high standards. Mrs Simmons has worked diligently throughout her time in the Senate, especially during the last couple of years of working during a global pandemic, to ensure that she remained robustly independent in carrying out her duties. I am sure she will be missed by her colleagues in the Senate and I wish Mrs Simmons all the best in the future.”
Senator Simmons said: “It has been an honour, an extraordinary privilege and a great pleasure to serve the people of Bermuda as an independent Senator over the past five years.
“As I step aside from this role, I would like to wish my former Senate colleagues well and assure them that I will continue to uphold each one of them in prayer. However, at this time it is necessary for me to focus on other matters.”
The Senate consists of 11 members, five selected by the Governing party, three by the official Opposition, and three Independents appointed by the Governor.
Michelle Simmons was first appointed to the role of Independent Senator in August 2017 and then became Vice President of the Senate in 2020.
An announcement with respect a new Independent Senator is anticipated prior to the next sitting of the Senate.
