By Sue-Ann Wayow

A LIFE of humility, integrity and service.

That was how independent senator Deoroop Teemal who served in the Senate from 2018 up until his death on Sunday was described by Senate President Wade Mark.

Mark in a joint statement with House of Representative Speaker Jagdeo Singh issued condolences on behalf of Parliament on Sunday following Teemal’s death early Sunday morning at his St Augustine home.

Describing him as an esteemed colleague, they said, “Senator Teemal, lived a life of humility, integrity and service. His dedication to public service and his unwavering commitment to the people of Trinidad and Tobago will be remembered and cherished.”

“His tireless advocacy for the welfare of all citizens was exemplary,” they added.

His expertise as a civil and structural engineer and project manager with over 37 years of experience, was shared in construction and project management, contract administration and water and wastewater engineering into the oversight functions of the Parliament.

Teemal served as chairman of the Joint Select Committee (JSC) on Land and Physical Infrastructure and recently named to again serve on that committee as well as the Public Accounts Committee.

Mark and Singh stated, “His presence in the Senate and service as a Member of Parliament will be sorely missed and his legacy of service shall continue to inspire others. On behalf of the Parliament of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and loved ones during this most difficult time; including all who were touched by his remarkable life. May his soul rest in peace and find eternal freedom.”

Teemal served in the 11th ,12th and 13th Republican Parliaments.

On July 29, Zola Phillips was appointed as a temporary independent senator to replace Teemal who was unable to perform his senatorial duties due to illness, Mark had announced during the Senate’s special sitting to further deliberate on the State of Emergency.

Beyond his public duties, Teemal  was a devoted husband to his spouse Geeta and loving father to his daughters who are in their  prayers at this time, Mark and Singh added.

Other senators also expressed condolences.

Opposition Senator Dr Amery Browne said Teemal’s death was a massive loss to the country.

“I will remember him as an absolute patriot and a gentleman of service…always positive, constructive, sincere, and well-researched. Never one to raise his voice, or express anger or disrespect, he was a true reflection of the very best of Trinidad and Tobago,” he posted on social media.

While he was a leading voice for the advancement of Indian cultural expression, he was also unrelenting in his appreciation of all aspects of a diverse nation, Dr Browne said.

Independent Senator Anthony Vieira said “In the Senate, Deo distinguished himself as a model of what the independent bench ought to represent. His contributions were consistently substantive, well-reasoned, and entirely free from partisan posturing.”

He added, “He embodied the spirit of constructive debate focused not on political victories, but on sound governance, better laws, and a more just society. His voice was one of principle, guided always by what was in the best interests of Trinidad and Tobago.”