Governor Sir Richard Gozney is to appoint a "politically neutral" Independent to fill the gap left by Senator Alf Oughton's retirement.

The Senate President retired last week at the age of 80, following 15 years' service – ten as President.

As Governor, Sir Richard will now be responsible for appointing another Independent politician to the Upper House.

"I will talk to a number of people before announcing Senator Oughton's replacement and will try to ensure I put forward someone who is genuinely Independent and politically neutral," Sir Richard told The Royal Gazette.

He said an announcement would be made at the end of October or early November, before the reconvening of Parliament. The Senate currently has five Government representatives, three Opposition members and two other Independents, Senators Walwyn Hughes the Vice-President, and Senator Carol Anne Bassett.

Opposition Leader and former Senator Kim Swan added his own comments to fellow politicians' tributes to Sen. Oughton, MBE.

Mr. Swan said: "On behalf of my United Bermuda Party colleagues, it is my privilege to extend our appreciation for the outstanding public service of Senate President Alf T. Oughton, who has announced his retirement.

"Senator Oughton has the distinction of serving as Senate President during United Bermuda Party and Progressive Labour Party governments.

"I had the honour to serve in the Senate Chamber for nine years – the entire time with Senator Alf Oughton as the President – and in my view he maintained and strengthened its essential legislative role as the Chamber of 'sober, second thought'.

"He brought to its deliberations an even-handed impartiality that held strong across his 15 years as Senator. His balance was demonstrated in a range of measures in which he both supported and voted against the government of the day.

"When it comes to important issues, Senator Oughton will be remembered for his passion for health care reform. In particular, he championed the 1996 'Oughton Report', which led to the adoption of many reforms that helped better serve people and the health care industry."

Mr. Swan added: "On a more personal note Senator Oughton, who is nearing 80 years of age, demonstrated the invaluable contribution that can be made by many people after surpassing the mandatory retirement age.

"Senator Oughton's service in the Senate, which took place after his professional retirement, indicates that our seniors represent a vitally important source of wisdom, intelligence and energy that can continue to be harnessed for a better Bermuda.

"We wish Senator Oughton well and also say 'thank you' to his family who allowed him to share his time with us and the people of Bermuda."