MP’s daughter to stand in mother’s seat
The Opposition One Bermuda Alliance yesterday announced Susan Jackson as their general election candidate for Pembroke South West.Ms Jackson, the daughter of former area MP Louise Jackson and former Senate President the late Albert Jackson, told the media that she had canvassed the area for a year in order to gain acceptance by the voters of Pembroke South West.“I can’t think of any higher calling than representing the people and this is a proud moment for me and I can really feel it in every fibre of my body,” Ms Jackson said.She added: “I have to say that I completely understand and get what it’s like to be a single mother raising children. I understand what it’s like to be unemployed and have doubts and fears about whether I am going to ever get another job.“On the positive side, I have worked in the community, I’ve had the most fantastic experience with Mirrors, Youth Net, Women’s Resource Center, Pride. And I thank you because they are intelligent, bright people who have so much to give to this country.”She said that she had met 85 percent of the constituents many of whom were concerned about unemployment, crime and the national debt.“They are looking for some change. And I’d like to say that the One Bermuda Alliance is that change. We are here as a group, we’re diverse, we’re energised, we’re intelligent, and we’ve got the good heart and commitment for the people of this country.”She said she was confident that the party would be able to “build an education system that works for our children, to face off the national debt, to reduce the crime.”OBA leader Craig Cannonier noted that his party was now fielding nine women for elective office. “I believe that is impressive for any party to be able to do that,” he said.“That’s one quarter of our field of candidates, and I can tell you they are a strong group committed to the issues that matter to the women of Bermuda.”He explained that Ms Jackson was not rolled out earlier because other potential candidates were interested and they were asked to canvass the area for support.The announcement comes just the day before all candidates have to officially submit their nominations.Ms Jackson will be competing for the Pembroke South West seat against three other candidates — the Progressive Labour Party’s Marcus Jones and two independents — Jonathan Starling and David Petty.Mr Jones was quick to react to the announcement with a welcome message sent on his behalf by the PLP."The people of Pembroke South West have been waiting to have the opportunity to hear where each candidate stands on the issues, what attributes we bring to the table and how we will represent their interests in Parliament," said Mr Jones."While canvassing the people of constituency #20 I have had the opportunity to listen to their concerns and lay out our 10-Point Plan for jobs and reviving the economy. We look forward to a vibrant and healthy debate."