BERMUDA-Premier stunned at the death of government legislator.

HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC -Premier David Burt has described the death of Leslie Robinson, his junior minister of economy, labor, and public works, on Tuesday as an “unimaginable tragedy.”

Burt said Bermuda “has lost an eminently qualified professional woman who had chosen public service in addition to a busy career in the private sector.

“This is an unimaginable tragedy which has shocked so many of us to the very core,” he said as he led the tributes for the 57-year-old legislator, adding, “Leslie answered the call to serve without hesitation, which exemplified her selfless nature and commitment to this community.

“It is heartbreaking to mourn her loss now, and I express sincere condolences to her family at this tough time,” he added.

The cause of Robinson’s death, who was appointed to the Senate in November 2022 and given the role of Junior Minister of Economy, Labour, and Public Works, has not been disclosed.

She was also the senior vice president and head of Underwriting and Claims at Willis Towers Watson, with more than 33 years of experience in Bermuda’s financial services sector.

She earned a Bachelor’s in Economics from Emory University and was also an Associate of the Chartered Insurance Institute of London. Robinson was appointed a Justice of the Peace for Bermuda in 2008.

Opposition Leader Jarion Richardson said that before becoming involved in politics, he had worked alongside Robinson at the Bermuda Monetary Authority.

“She was clear, audacious and bold. She led her team with a professionalism that made her incredibly admirable. She often asked me deep, perceptive questions.

“I was encouraged when Senator Robinson joined the Senate. Although we would have differing perspectives, her keen insight and intellectual rigor would enhance the work of the Senate for the betterment of all Bermuda,” Richardson said, extending his “deepest sympathies and condolences” to her friends and family.

The opposition leader in the Senate, Robin Tucker, said that despite being on opposite sides of the floor, she and Robinson shared a camaraderie outside politics.

“It was a privilege to have known and worked with her in the Senate. Although we did not always agree, once business was done for the day, we often chatted about everything from politics to fashion. She will be a tremendous miss to all blessed to know her.”