SPARE ME a few lines to recognise the passing and, indeed, the contribution of Senator Ted Kennedy.

In his tribute, President Barack Obama noted that almost all major legislation, be it civil rights, health, education or environment "bore the name of Senator Kennedy". Here is a man who stood for a cause, driven by conviction and, therefore, has his place of prominence in the consciousness of past, current and future generations.

During my representation of the Caribbean at the July 2007 Presidential Classroom Seminar in Washington DC, the other country-representatives and I were impressed with the volumnous nature of Senator Ted Kennedy's contribution to "world democracy". We were made to take note of his legacy of salient initiatives, achieved through legislation, persistent proposals and social activism. Such is his contribution to humanity.

Senator Ted Kennedy was arguably the most noted contributor to nation building, governance and public service within 'The Great United States of America'. He was blessed with longevity, a trait unfamiliar to the Kennedy clan, which has had its fair share of tragedy. May they be comforted in this their (our) time of loss.

I am, etc.,

ABKA FITZ-HENLEY

abkafitzhenley@yahoo.com