Senior Political Reporter
A larger-than-life son of the soil, a noble gentleman, a lion of the legal field—and a true example of patriotism.
Those were among tributes paid by senators yesterday to former Chief Justice Michael de la Bastide, who died on March 30. Senators observed a minute’s silence on his passing during the sitting. De la Bastide had served as an Independent Senator in the first Republican Parliament between 1976 to 1981.
“There again (in the Senate) he was balanced, measured, well-spoken, well researched, respected and respectful … and he sought to represent the public interest in every debate that he joined,” said Government Senate leader Dr Amery Browne in his tribute.
Browne said de la Bastide was one of the most outstanding jurists in T&T’s history and was a larger-than-life son of the soil.
Detailing his history from a child who lost his father at age nine to his brilliant performance at schools, university, law school and other areas, Browne added, “His academic and all-round foundation led him to a distinguished and absolutely outstanding career in the legal profession ... his legacy continues to live on in the Caribbean Court of Justice’s hallowed halls, and across many other institutions that he graced with his distinguished presence.”
Detailing de la Bastide’s engagement with organisations, Browne added, “In the words of his dear wife Simone, he always found ways to pay it forward, quietly and consistently. She describes him as a formidable, confident man, who firmly believed in God.
“In his last days, Michael lost his vision, but with a deep sense of faith, love and support, he continued to navigate through life. His oldest, dearest friend Boyd Reid used to visit and patiently read various books for him, four days per week, four books at a time. Sadly, Boyd passed away one week before Michael did.”
Browne added, “The body of work proceeding from his astute mind and his flowing pen, much like his indomitable spirit which returns to its Maker, must certainly live on thanks to his indelible contributions to society.”
Opposition Senate leader Wade Mark described de la Bastide as a noble gentleman, scholar, jurist extraordinaire and a former chief justice “who graced this august House in his wisdom as a Senator”.
Detailing de la Bastide’s distinguished career, Mark added, “Indeed, T&T has lost a noble gentleman of its soil whose wisdom has contributed immensely to nation-building in T&T.”
Independent Senator Anthony Vieira, who said de la Bastide was the reason he decided to pursue law, said he was, “one of the finest minds T&T has ever produced”.
“Michael worked tirelessly for the development of judicial education, judicial independence, and jurisprudence in T&T. He was a force of nature, truly a lion at the bar. Today, that mighty roar has fallen silent, but the memory of it will resonate for years to come.
“Though brilliant, he was never vain or boastful ... significantly, he wasn’t one-dimensional. The ‘Bull’ had many interests, including a passion for bridge and a love for sport, particularly field hockey and tennis. He enjoyed a good fete and playing mas; indeed, tales about his joie de vivre at Carnival time were legendary.
“He had the amazing capacity to both work and play hard. Michael de la Bastide represents the best of what T&T can offer. We should be proud of him, celebrate him, and honour his legacy.”
refrained from giving voice to the minority perspective... he always championed pressing issues of the day whether or not they were popular ones.”