Kidd-Deans PRUDENCE KIDD-DEANS, special assistant to Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) Leader Edward Seaga, was yesterday sworn into the Senate, bringing the Opposition's complement back up to eight after the departure of Dr. David Panton earlier this year.
Mrs. Kidd-Deans, who is also a former JLP Deputy General Secretary, was greeted with warm kisses from members on both sides of the floor after taking the Oath of Allegiance at the beginning of the days proceedings.
"We believe that she will be a useful addition," Senator Anthony Johnson, Leader of Opposition Business, later said on the adjournment of the sitting. "Despite her very calm and tranquil appearance, you can be quite assured that she is well equipped to continue our fight on this side for equal rights and justice."
Added Opposition Senator Dorothy Lightbourne: "I am delighted to see the increased participation of women in the Upper House. Senator Kidd-Deans will bring a level of incisiveness to our debates."
The newly-appointed Senator Kidd-Deans, who is the JLP's Spokesperson on Women's Affairs, brings the Opposition's complement of women to three including Senator Lightbourne and Senator Shirley Williams.
The Government side includes female Senators Deika Morrison and Senate President Syringa Marshall-Burnett.
Dr. Panton surprised colleagues by resigning from the Senate in March, opting to pursue career interests in Atlanta, Georgia, in the United States.
