StMaartenNews

Aline Hanson laid to rest

July 6, 2017

MARIGOT—Tributes and accolades rained down on the former President of the Collectivité Aline Hanson who was laid to rest on Wednesday afternoon following a church service at the Catholic Church in Marigot. Mrs. Hanson died Thursday June 29 at 67 years of age after a long battle with illness.
The funeral procession arrived at around midday at the church having passed in front Hotel de Collectivité for the last time as a tribute to her service in public office. The pall bearers, who were members of the territorial police, raised her coffin as they entered the church. The attendance was so large, a giant screen was installed outside for the overflow including other members of the public to follow the service.
During the service, several dignitaries paid tribute to Mrs. Hanson. Education official Michel Sanz said education on St. Martin owes a lot to Hanson. “National Education owes her a lot. She was a woman of conviction, courage and heart. She will remain an example for us to follow,” Sanz said.
President Daniel Gibbs also hailed Hanson as a good example for young people. “She loved to follow the course of young people as she had been a school teacher,” stressed the President Gibbs. He hailed her for dedicating her life into service to St. Martin.
Meanwhile, Senator Guillaume Arnell described her as a companion of struggle during the last ten years and a close collaborator. Prefet Anne Laubies praised Hanson as a pragmatic woman and whose commitment should be praised.
Claire Javois and Micheline Jacques both describe Hanson as a passionate St. Martinoise who devoted all her time to the development of the island. Marie-Luce Penchard, Mayor of Basse-Terre and vice-president of the region of Guadeloupe said Hanson was the image of a woman who was always willing to defend the interests of the community and the citizens of Saint-Martin in a spirit of justice.” For Alexandre Rodolphe, President of the Guyanese Association on St. Martin, who also paid tribute to Hanson, the island has lost an ambassador.

Photo Caption: The body of former President of the Collectivité Aline Hanson is escorted to the Catholic Church where the funeral service was held. Photo: Soualiga Post.