Dear Sir,

In response to the article published in The Royal Gazette on December 2, 2021, where MP Ben Smith was interviewed on matters with the Joint Select Committee for the events of December 2, 2016. It was stated by the MP Smith that “Robyn [ie, I] was put on but never attended a meeting”.

The recent statements by MP Smith, my former colleague, misrepresented both my position on the matter and the victims of December 2.

I, like several other Bermudians, vividly remember looking on in shock and horror as the live footage in front of the House of Assembly unfolded. There were no winners that day. All of Bermuda lost. We lost a part of our democracy, humanity and trust in our leaders.

It is not pleasing to read that Mr Smith summed up his displeasure with the Joint Selection Committee for the events of December 2 as “being disillusioned with the process”.

I do not share the same views. I took my tenure in Senate quite seriously, and made strenuous efforts to attend meetings. Leadership seems to be taken lightly in today's society, but I rest well knowing I gave my best effort despite a lack of support. When you have the letters JP, MP behind your name, you are obliged to put your best foot forward, to do the work required and represent your constituents, and ultimately all members of our island, whether they voted for you or not.

If members of the One Bermuda Alliance were so displeased with the committee, then why didn’t they push forward their own proposal? Is that not the function of an opposition?

Nevertheless, it is a pleasure to know that the victims were compensated, as was my wish during my extremely brief time serving on the committee. Even if for a short time, I was actively part of that process.

To be clear, I am no longer a member of the OBA and have had no affiliation with them since 2018.

Having my name used in such a careless manner is not acceptable, especially when due diligence could have been used.

I have kept silent on a multitude of matters concerning myself and my former party, and that stance has not served me well. From now on I will not stand by when mis-information on me is being cited. The One Bermuda Alliance must refrain from using my name in any further utterances and respect my wish to not be drawn into any of their political games.

While I have left the organisation with whom I served in the graduating capacities of youth chairman, candidate, caucus chairman and senator, I will always be grateful for the opportunity to serve my community as a member of parliament. I now know that I can give more to my community by sharing my experiences and knowledge with anyone seeking assistance, regardless of political affiliation.

I have and will continue to work against injustice, and any cause that will move Bermuda forward.

ROBYN SWAN

Former One Bermuda Alliance candidate and senator