Senator Jamilla Kirwan Says Public Service Must Be About “Doing” Not “Shouting”
Independent Senator Jamilla Kirwan says she intends to focus on service rather than political confrontation as she prepares to return to the Senate, describing modern politics as “caustic” and urging young people to lead through action rather than rhetoric.
Speaking in an interview following her swearing-in ceremony, Kirwan reflected on the personal and political challenges she has faced in recent months, saying the experience tested her resilience and strengthened her commitment to national service.
“I am, besides feeling overwhelmed, truly, truly humbled and truly, truly honored that this huge responsibility has been bestowed upon me,” she said. “This is a true test of strength, because how do you know that you’re strong unless you’re tested?”
Kirwan said her brief first stint in the Senate confirmed her desire to continue contributing to public life and national development.
“National service is a huge responsibility. To whom much is given, much is required,” she said, adding that she intended to approach the role “full throttle.”
During the interview, Kirwan also addressed the challenges women and young people face in politics, acknowledging that many are discouraged by the increasingly hostile tone of public discourse.
“I didn’t quite like the political landscape,” she said. “I think it has become very caustic and very traumatic for any individual, women or men, and particularly our young people who are watching on.”
Kirwan said she believes politics should be rooted in service rather than “ego,” arguments and public confrontation.
“They want to see true representation of people who are not — it’s not just about ego, it’s not about the arguments and the shouting, it’s about service,” she said.
The senator pointed to her work managing the Calvin Air Foundation over the past six years as evidence of her commitment to helping vulnerable people and advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves.
“It has only been about service — helping people who are unable to help themselves and speaking for the voiceless,” Kirwan said.
She said she hoped her example would encourage young women to pursue leadership roles despite the pressures associated with politics.
“I’m not going to just talk the talk. I’m going to walk the walk,” she said. “It’s not about the preaching. It’s not about the talking. It’s about the doing.”
Kirwan also became emotional while reflecting on the influence of her late mother, “Momi” Lucy, whose recent passing she referenced repeatedly during the day’s proceedings.
“Lucy has always said to me that I could do anything,” she said, describing her mother as quiet and unassuming but deeply resilient.
“I will continue to walk in the legacy that she has built for me and my children,” Kirwan added.
Looking ahead to the new parliamentary term, Kirwan said her immediate priority was to be formally sworn in before beginning what she described as “the people’s work.”
“Whatever is on the agenda, I’m all for it,” she said. “Ready to make my contribution.”
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