Madam Deputy Speaker, the IFP joins the DA and Cope, and all other members, in expressing its condolences to the bereaved family and friends of our dear former colleague Cheryl Gillwald. As a member of the justice committee, I had the privilege of working alongside her in Parliament for some years.
I vividly remember Cheryl as a charming person whose doors were always open to her colleagues. She had a beautiful smile and a warm personality. The tragedy is that she can no longer continue making the contributions she offered in respect of development, human rights and the ongoing struggle for social justice, and the eradication of poverty.
However, as we mourn her passing, we must also remember with gratitude the achievements she did attain within the time allotted to her. We remember Mrs Gillwald as playing a leading role in the mission to create a human rights culture in South Africa. We remember her for the work she did to improve the lives of ordinary South Africans. We remember her passion for the rights of women and children. We remember her contribution to governance and development. Throughout her political career, Mrs Gillwald displayed an outstanding work ethic, and we were impressed by her skills and leadership capacities.
Death is a particularly difficult, but totally unavoidable, bridge to cross, and we all have to face that final moment. I, myself, sometimes feel so unprepared for death, as death could take any of us at any time. The lesson we are to take to heart today is that we should all meditate more about our own approaching final moments.
May Cheryl rest in peace.