Kingston, 12 June 2024 – The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, the Honourable Olivia Grange, has hailed the late former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Violet Neilson, as a “barrier breaker” and “inspirational figure”.

Mrs Neilson passed away yesterday (Tuesday).

Minister Grange, who is also the Deputy Leader of the House of Representatives, said she “always remembered” when Violet Neilson became the Speaker of Jamaica’s parliament.

“By that time, we’d had two women in the role of President of the Senate, but not yet a woman as Speaker, so there was some excitement about Violet Neilson finally being the one to break that barrier in the House,” said Minister Grange.

Mrs Neilson was also the first woman to become president of the Jamaica Agricultural Society.

“Violet Neilson has been an inspirational figure who served our country in various roles. I am saddened by her passing and offer sincere condolences to her family and friends,” said Minister Grange.

END