Prime Minister Freundel Stuart??
Prime Minister Freundel Stuart has described the passing of Dame Olga Lopes-Seale as a national loss, and "someone we may never see the likes of again".
He was at the time responding to the news that Dame Olga earlier today??at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital after a recent illness.
The Prime Minister said her death was not only a blow to many of the less fortunate, for whom she lived and dedicated her life, but to this nation which was her home for over half of a century, and for which she became a national treasure.
"Auntie Olga, as she was affectionately known by all, was the doyen of broadcasters locally. But above all, she was the quintessential humanitarian. Hers was a selfless life devoted to the amelioration of the plight of the poor and the underprivileged. Indeed, her altruism transcended colour, race and creed.
Over the past many decades, hers was an act of heroism, as she, in spite of advanced age, was still driven to criss-cross our island, journeying to remote districts, sometimes along treacherous terrain, to bring assistance and relief to the needy.
The Needy Children’s Fund, that assisted hundreds for years, bears testimony to her herculean efforts that were her labour of love.
To me, she was the local Mother Theresa, whose main purpose in life was the welfare of the poor.
To her grieving relatives, friends and extended family, I offer heartfelt condolences on behalf of my own family, and the Government and people of Barbados. She will be missed. May she rest in peace."??