Facing a whole new chapter ahead.
That’s how former Independent Senator Melissa Ramkissoon feels about the fact that she is not only leaving her job at Petrotrin as the company changes, but she is also relinquishing her position as a senator as the composition of the Independent bench changes also.
All at the same time.
“It’s a new season for me—but I remain positive,” Ramkissoon said on Thursday after submitting her resignation from the Independent bench to President’s House. She said she was honoured and grateful to have served.
Ramkissoon, a Petrotrin engineer at Trinmar, is also already packed and ready to leave when her section at Petrotrin closes by November 30.
She had lamented the refinery’s closure when she spoke in the 2019 Budget debate, earning criticism from Agriculture Minister Clarence Rambharat.
Ramkissoon the youngest Independent senator to be appointed—at age 28 in 2015—was among the senators who resigned after President’s House moved this week to change the Independent bench’s composition.
Former Independents were contacted via email on Monday on the change. Most of the nine Independents—including Ramkissoon—were removed. Only senators Sophia Chote, Paul Richards and recently appointed Dr Varma Deyalsingh were retained.
Tipped for the Independent bench are former Independent senator Anthony Viera, retired Communication Workers’ Union president general Joseph Remy (who resigned as CWU head in 2017), attorney Hazel Thompson-Ahye, National Council of Indian Culture official Deoroop Teemul, economist Amrita Deonarine and consultant Charrise Seepersad.
Some were expected to meet the President today.
Ramkissoon said, “I was appointed an Independent senator, proudly representing the social sector of the oilfield workers and engineers. The experience in the Senate kindled the fire to fight for justice and socio-economical human rights. As an appointed member of Parliament, the position was always clearly known to be part-time and temporary. Therefore, the President wishes are respected and fully supported. I strongly believe all persons elected or appointed to serve enjoy the conscious vote in our democracy and hold the best interest of the people of T&T. The world is evolving and our people need stand together to fight to save our core values and rise above the fears we face.”
Ramkissoon participated in debate on 28 bills, laid 16 motions and brought a motion—to resolve Cybercrimes in T&T which was supported by Government.
“I thank the public, my family, my dear friends for their support and prayers through my journey in public life and special acknowledgment to my Petrotrin co-workers, family away from home. I have faith in the people of T&T,” she said.