As a youngster who came up through the ranks of the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU), Minister of Labour Pearnel Charles, had the opportunity of working under the leadership of Sir Alexander Bustamante and his beautiful wife, Gladys.

Speaking about some of his better moments with Lady Bustamante, Minister Charles described her as an icon who would be missed.

"I will remember the passion she demonstrated over the years as a peacemaker and a great negotiator," said Charles.

The minister made reference to two incidents which still stood out in his mind. The first was while he was studying in the United States. He led a student delegation to Jamaica, and with the assistance of Lady Bustamante, he got the opportunity to meet with Sir Alexander Bustamante, who was then prime minister.

On the second occasion, he got into trouble with Sir Alexander while working at the BITU and it was Lady B who came to his rescue.

"It was a time when I decided to run as a councillor in West Kingston. I didn't know that I should have got permission from the BITU," said Charles.

When he got back to the office, he was given a dismissal letter.

"The Chief (Sir Alexander) said he employed us as union officers and not as politicians. Lady B intervened and told him how much we wanted to be like him. Then he responded, 'So they want to be like me, all right', and he took back the letter," said Charles, attempting his best Sir Alexander voice.