Message of condolence from the Caribbean Community on the passing of the right Honourable Sir John Compton, Prime Minister Of Saint Lucia

TURKEYEN, Greater Georgetown – It is with deep sorrow that the CARICOM Secretariat has learned of the passing of Sir John Compton, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia. On behalf of the Caribbean Community, the staff of the Secretariat, and on my own behalf, I wish to extend heartfelt condolences to the family of Sir John and the Government and people of Saint Lucia.

Sir John played a historic role in the political life of Saint Lucia. He led his country to independence in 1979 and served again as Prime Minister during the period 1982-1996. Sir John was well loved by the people of Saint Lucia, a fact evident in his receiving a new mandate to lead the country in 2006.

Sir John was a visionary leader whose outstanding stewardship redounded to the social and economic benefit of the people of Saint Lucia. He was also a committed regionalist who worked tirelessly towards the goal of regional integration of both the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States and of the Caribbean Community. In 2003, he was awarded the Order of the Caribbean Community (OCC), the highest honour of CARICOM, for his exemplary contribution to the regional integration process.

The passing of this illustrious national and regional leader will be deeply felt by the people of Saint Lucia as well as by the wider community to both of which he was passionately devoted.