STATEMENT BY THE RT. HON. OWEN ARTHUR, PRIME MINISTER OF BARBADOS AND CHAIR OF THE CONFERENCE OF HEADS OF THE CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY (CARICOM) TO MARK THE PASSING OF SIR JOHN COMPTON PRIME MINISTER OF ST. LUCIA
SEPTEMBER 8, 2007
We were all saddened this morning by news that signalled the passing of Sir John Compton, Prime Minister of St. Lucia and Elder Statesman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Prime Minister Compton served his people with distinction and commitment and has made an indelible mark on the history of St. Lucia.
Indeed, such was his dedication that all CARICOM has, in some way felt his influence, making his death not just a tragic loss for the people of St. Lucia, but also for the CARICOM family of nations. His tireless service as active advocate of regional integration will resonate in the minds of the peoples of CARICOM for generations to come.
Barbados stands united with the people of St. Lucia in mourning the loss of Prime Minister Compton. While we are especially saddened by this bereavement, Barbados remains confident that his legacy will inspire the Government and people of St. Lucia in their commitment to national development and to the realisation of a single Caribbean political and economic entity.
On behalf of the Government and people of Barbados, I extend heartfelt sympathies and condolences to Prime Minister Compton’s family and to the Government and people of St. Lucia, in their hour of grief. May they be consoled by the comforting words of St. Matthew: “The Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with his angels and then He will reward each according to his works”.