The Senate paused on Wednesday to honour the memory of former senator and leader of government business Mary-Clare Hurst, who died on May 5 following a period of illness.
Senate President Alincia Williams-Grant called for a moment of silence following a swearing-in ceremony at Parliament, describing Hurst as a figure whose contributions had shaped the path for women who entered the legislature after her.
"Her contributions in this house are well documented, and she has led the way for a lot of our women on, I'd imagine, every side, to understand their role and function as leaders in this country," Williams-Grant said.
Senator Hughes also paid tribute, reflecting on a long personal association with Hurst that spanned the basketball association, the National Youth Council, and the political arena. "Senator Hurst had a different style and brand of leadership — calm in nature but solid in her conviction," he said. "I salute the late Senator Mary-Clare Hurst for her outstanding service to Antigua and Barbuda."
Hughes emphasised that recognition of Hurst's legacy transcended political lines. "Regardless of our political differences and difference of ideologies, one must always pay respect to persons who would have contributed in this Honourable House," he said.
Hurst leaves behind a distinguished record of public service. She was the first woman to serve as general secretary of the Antigua Barbuda Labour Party. She also held the positions of government senator, deputy leader and leader of government business in the Senate, minister of state in the Ministry of Tourism and Economic Development, and chairwoman of the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority.
The government has accorded Hurst an official funeral. A service of thanksgiving for her life is scheduled for June 2.
