The local political landscape is today poorer with the passing of the affable trailblazing Violet Neilson, the first female Speaker of the House of Representatives.

In a late afternoon release on Tuesday, the People’s National Party (PNP) said it was with profound sadness that it acknowledged the passing of Neilson, a stalwart of Jamaican politics.

The PNP noted that Neilson passed on Tuesday, “leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the people of Jamaica”.

“Violet Neilson made history as the first female Speaker of the House of Representatives, serving with distinction from 1997 to 2003. Her tenure was marked by her firm yet fair leadership, her integrity, and her tireless advocacy for parliamentary democracy. She was a trailblazer for women in politics and public service, and her contributions have paved the way for many who followed in her footsteps,” said the PNP

According to the PNP, throughout her political career, Neilson exemplified the highest standards of public service.

“She was known for her deep compassion, her keen intellect, and her steadfast dedication to her constituents. Her work extended beyond the halls of Parliament, impacting the lives of countless Jamaicans through her community involvement and her championing of social justice,” added the PNP.

The party’s president, Mark Golding, in his tribute to the fallen Comrade said, “Violet Neilson was a beacon of strength and a true servant of the people. Her pioneering spirit and her contributions to our nation will never be forgotten. We extend our deepest sympathies to her family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

“As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the indelible mark she has left on our country. Comrade Violet Neilson’s legacy will continue to inspire and guide us in our pursuit of a just and equitable society,” added Golding as he expressed condolence to her family and friends.

In the meantime, former PNP President PJ Patterson, who had Neilson as his campaign manager during an election while they were still in primary school, said her death was a “very personal and painful loss which no words can adequately convey”.

He described her as a devoted and relentless representative in the cause of uplifting the children, women, and every citizen within her constituency, and said, “The name of Violet Neilson will remain indelibly etched in the annals of our nation as the first female Speaker of the House of Representatives.”

Neilson, who was born July 16, 1931, was a trained teacher who represented St James East Central in Parliament from 1989 to 1997.

She was educated at Mico Teachers’ College in Kingston and returned to her birth community of Somerton, St James, to teach for almost 20 years.

Before entering representational politics she served as the first female president of the Jamaica Agricultural Society and as a secretary for St James South Eastern Member of Parliament Upton Robotham.

After retiring from politics she became an active volunteer at Somerton United Church where she worshipped for years.