Senators are to send condolences to the grieving family of murder victim George Lynch.

Government Senate Leader David Burch requested the move in yesterday's Senate session, describing Mr. Lynch as "an outstanding father to his family and to all young people who came into contact with him".

Mr. Lynch, a Jamaican national, was shot dead outside a house in Hamilton Parish on the evening of May 5.

The 40-year-old was married to Victor Scott Primary School teacher Nekesha Holdipp, with whom he had two children. Ms Holdipp was expecting his third child. Senators also spoke of Michael Telemaque, father of Cabinet Secretary Marc Telemaque.

"His sudden passing was a complete shock to this Country, and we send our condolences to the Telemaque family," said Sen. Burch.

The senator also requested congratulations to be sent to 17-year-old Berkeley Institute student Alton O'Connor, who is building a 13ft by 5ft fishing boat.

"I would encourage all members of the Senate to go visit this department. Not just the boat, but all the technical school, from dressmaking to baking, is amazing," said Sen. Burch.

Independent Senator Joan Dillas Wright asked for condolences to be sent to the family of jazz musician Milton Robinson.

Mr. Robinson died on May 19 at the age of 77.

"He was a very talented musician in Bermuda and played many instruments," she said.

Independent Senator Walwyn Hughes wanted congratulations to be sent to the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences for its POGO programme.

The Partnership for Observations of the Global Oceans (POGO) Centre of Excellence aims to expand oceanographic skills and research to developing nations, so encouraging greater international collaboration in monitoring the marine environment.

Sen. Hughes said: "The programme will put in place a network of oceanographers all speaking the same language," he said. He also called for congratulations to be sent to the graduating class of Bermuda College.

Government Senator Marc Bean supported this.

"What struck me in addition to the wonderful speeches was the amount of males graduating and a lot of mature students," he said.

"I'd like to congratulate all the graduates but particularly the men and mature students."

Sen. Bean also wanted to commend the Ministry of Culture and Social Rehabilitation for the May 24 Bermuda Day Parade, plus all of its participants and the runners in the Marathon Derby.

Opposition Senate leader Michael Dunkley congratulated race winner Chris Estwanik and race veteran Raymond Swan on their participation.

On Mr. Swan he said: "To come out and to set an example to so many of our young people, he should be applauded."

Government Senator Thaao Dill said letters of congratulations should be sent to Rosalind Robinson, who celebrated her 100th birthday yesterday, and the Gilbert and Sullivan Society for their "flawless" production of 'The History Boys'.