Former Telecommunications Minister E.T. (Bob) Richards is returning to politics to take the place of Rev. Leonard Santucci who is stepping down from the Senate.

Opposition Leader Grant Gibbons said: ?Bob Richards brings to our Senate team a wealth of experience and a family legacy of serving Bermuda. He has a proven record of expanding opportunity for Bermudians.

?Bob?s strong business skills and his vision for a fairer and more inclusive Bermuda will further enhance our Senate team.?

Mr. Richards said:?I very much enjoyed my previous service in the Senate and am looking forward to serving again.

?As a member of the United Bermuda Party team I hope to make a substantial contribution toward improving the living standard and welfare of all Bermudians.?

In 1997, Mr. Richards was appointed to the Bermuda Senate under the United Bermuda Party Government and served as Government Leader in the Senate and Minister of Telecommunications.

He has also served on many public sector boards including the Bermuda Monetary Authority, the Public Funds Investment Committee, the Bermuda Association of Securities Dealers and the Economic Council.

He currently is deputy chairman of Cellular One in Bermuda, and a director of The United Kingdom Mutual Steam Ship Assurance Association and Standard Life (Bermuda) Ltd.

Dr. Gibbons praised outgoing Senator Rev. Santucci for his service to the country. It?s understood Rev. Santucci is retiring from the Senate due to church commitments.