By Simon Jones

One Bermuda Alliance Senator Alexis Swan will step down from the Senate before the next session begins on February 18, Premier Michael Dunkley announced this evening.

Ms Swan was appointed as a senator after the December 2012 election, when she ran as the OBA’s candidate for Warwick South East.

Mr Dunkley said the move was “is in keeping with adjustments to the Government’s Parliamentary team” that began with this month’s Cabinet shuffle.

He praised Ms Swan for her work in the Senate and said the change would provide another person the opportunity to serve their country.

“Alexis has done a great job in a very challenging environment,” Mr Dunkley said.

“I have been in many meetings with her and am impressed by her passion to expand the voices of younger generations and women in the decisions and deliberations of Government.

“She has also worked continuously to make sure the people of Warwick South East have a voice in Government. I admire her activism, her spirit and her commitment to public life, and appreciate her decision making it possible for someone else to have a chance to serve.

“Alexis will continue to serve the people of her constituency. I regard her as one of the next generation of future leaders and it is my desire that she be part of our team in the next general election.”

Ms Swan served as a Junior Minister for Community, Culture and Sports and was a founding member of the young Bermudians group, Future Bermuda Alliance.

Mr Dunkley will select a new Senate candidate before the mid-February resumption of Parliament.

Ms Swan, who works as an insurance executive, said: “I have enjoyed my time in the Senate. I have learned a lot — seeing how government works and appreciating the challenges of getting things done for public benefit.

“These past three years, getting involved in both politics and government, has been a time of personal growth and new confidence for me. I wouldn’t have traded it for anything — helping to serve my country and people.

“I am fine with being part of the Premier’s realignment, in creating the opportunity for someone else to serve in the Senate.”