Parliamentarians Express Condolence to Dr. Tufton on Mother’s Passing

Parliamentarians conveyed condolences to Agriculture and Fisheries Minister, Hon. Dr. Christopher Tufton, and his family, on the passing of his mother, Ruby Blake, during Tuesday’s (July 28) sitting of the House of Representatives.
Ms. Blake, a retired civil servant, who worked with the Ministry of Labour and Social Security for more than 30 years, passed away on July 23 in the Tony Thwaites Wing of the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI), where she was admitted the previous week after suffering a stroke. She was 64 years old.
The matter was formally brought to the Parliament’s attention by House Leader and Education Minister, Hon. Andrew Holness, who, in conveying condolences, assured Dr. Tufton that “we are with him in his moment of sorrow.”
In her comments, Opposition Leader, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller, noted Ms. Blake’s tenure with the Ministry of Labour, particularly when the Opposition Leader held portfolio responsibility for that Ministry. “She was an excellent worker, and a very caring person,” she recounted.
Opposition Spokesman on Agriculture, Roger Clarke, in empathising with Dr. Tufton, noted that he too lost his mother two years ago. “So, I understand how he feels at this time, and he has my support, and I really and sincerely send my deepest sympathy to him,” Mr. Clarke stated.
Speaker of the House, Delroy Chuck, indicated that in pursuance of the sentiments conveyed, the Clerk of the House would be asked to send a letter of condolence on behalf of the Parliamentarians to Dr. Tufton and his family.