Union stalwart Betty Christopher is to stand down from office in the Bermuda Public Services Association after 35 years service.

Mrs. Christopher, who is currently president of the 3,000-plus union, will not stand again during next month's poll, whilst former sparring partner Loleath Bailey has also said she will not seek the post, although she is standing for first vice-president.

Union General Secretary Ed Ball paid tribute to Mrs. Christopher's contribution to the union.

He said: “She's done a good job and been very keen to insure workers rights are adhered to.

“This is a thankless job, quite frankly, all you can do is your best.”

He said Mrs. Christopher always tried to use her historical knowledge to steer the union in the right direction.

“She's got a lot of experience and has tried as much as possible to pass that on.”

Mr. Ball said candidates would have to look at how the impact of terrorism would affect job security while communication and reaching the membership would also be key campaigning issues.

Contesting the President's post are Nigel Pemberton, who works in customs and current first Vice President Golinda Fox, who works in the hospital.

Contesting the first vice president's post are Leleath Bailey, who works in parliamentary registration, immigration clerk rep Debbie Kay-Martin and Allan Roberts, who works at the post office.

Fighting for the treasurer's post are Michael Crichlow, from the tax commissioner's office and current incumbent Michael Looby who works at St. Brendan's.

The first round of voting takes place on January 31 for those who will be away from the island for the main vote on February 7.

Mr. Ball said the posts would now be for three years instead of two to give time for candidates to bring in change before they had to face re-election.