Dear Editor,
When learning of the passing of former President of the Collectivité the Honourable Mrs. Aline Hanson, I share the sentiments of many that our people of both North and South have lost a soft spoken Lady Leader who cared deeply for the wellbeing of her people and for her island.
I had the privilege to meet with Mrs. Hanson officially and un-officially on several occasions over the many years that both she and I had been in elected office. During our term, when invited to meet with the first Parliament of St. Maarten, her office immediately responded positively. Under her leadership the Territorial Council of St. Martin attended a meeting on August 9, 2013. It was agreed then among others to have a follow-up meeting to discuss several pressing issues as recorded in the Parliamentary year report 2012-2013 including safety and security, European funding and the formalization of a structural working relationship between Parliament’s permanent committees and the Territorial Council committees.
Lady Hanson exuded a naturally calm demeanour, listening carefully and with respect to the function that she was “unexpectedly” entrusted with as she was called to represent her people during her term as the first female President of the Collectivité.
Mrs. Hanson dealt with the “upside” as well as with the perils that regrettably go with the occupation of such high public of elected and appointed offices.
On behalf of the P.P.A party, my family and I extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family, friends, constituents and people of St. Martin with the passing of former President of the Collectivité the Honourable Mrs. Aline Hanson. May her soul rest in eternal peace as she joins those great leaders before her who truly cared.
Gracita Arrindell
President, People’s Progressive Alliance (PPA)
