00:00Friends, family and colleagues are mourning the loss of a man they describe as one of a kind,
00:06Deroop Timal, a former independent senator.
00:10Timal was first appointed as independent senator in 2020
00:13and served in the 11th, 12th and 13th Republican Parliaments.
00:18He was also a civil and structural engineer and a project manager
00:21with more than 37 years of professional experience.
00:25His cultural contributions were also just as impactful.
00:28As the president of NCIC, Timal promoted inclusivity and engagement across communities.
00:35Vice President of NCIC, Siruj Deo Moongrove, said his legacy is deeply rooted in service.
00:42He valued inclusivity and often encouraged participation from all age groups and backgrounds.
00:48Many recall his approachable nature at NCIC events where he would personally welcome guests,
00:53listen to their ideas and ensure everyone felt part of the cultural community.
00:58He was a mentor to many, many young leaders and volunteers, not only within the NCIC but other organizations.
01:06He took time to guide new members, share stories of the organization's history and inspire others
01:11to continue to work for cultural preservations.
01:16Mr. Timal was always marked by his humility and sense of humor.
01:20He had a talent for making people feel comfortable, whether in formal meetings or casual gatherings,
01:27and often shared anecdotes that reflected his deep connection to his roots.
01:31Former Foreign Affairs Minister and PNM Senator Dr. Amy Brong, in a tribute on social media,
01:37hailed Timal as a true reflection of the very best of Trinidad and Tobago.
01:42Dr. Brong added, quote,
01:44I will remember him as an absolute patriot and a gentleman of service,
01:49always positive, constructive, sincere and well-researched,
01:53never one to raise his voice or express anger or disrespect, end quote.
01:58Former Independent Senator Hazel Thompson-Aye also paid a tribute,
02:03remembering Timal as hardworking and committed.
02:06He was very earnest in terms of what he had to do in the Senate.
02:13And, you know, he worked hard at everything that he had to do in terms of his work as a senator.
02:22He brought a lot to the bench.
02:25I remember when we were doing the legislation and planning and so on, you know,
02:31I was able to learn a lot from him.
02:37He brought a different perspective because of his discipline,
02:41which I thought was useful.
02:44He was very cheery, very friendly with everybody.
02:48Charlotte Kisto, TV6 News.
Comments