PM Thomas describes late Barbadian PM as a visionary leader

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, October 23, 2010 – Prime Minister Tillman Thomas was among regional leaders who have expressed condolences to the government and people of Barbados on the sudden death of Prime Minister David Thompson on Saturday.

Mr Thompson, 48, passed away at his St Phillips’ home after suffering from pancreatic cancer.

The Grenadian leader shared fond memories of the late Barbadian Prime Minister who was among the first leader to visit Grenada following his ruling National Democratic Congress’ victory at the July 2008 polls. He also noted the close working relationship between the governments of Grenada and Barbados especially on regional governance.

He said that Barbados and the region has lost a great leader. He described Mr Thompson as an intellectual and visionary leader.

Also expressing condolences was Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Glynis Roberts who is in Barbados.

Minister Roberts conveyed her condolences directly to her colleague Minister.

“His death is a tragic lost to the region,” said Roberts who is attending her daughter's graduation ceremony in Bridgetown.

The Parliamentary arm of the ruling Democratic Labour Party of Barbados has chosen Freundel Stuart to succeed the late Prime Minister David Thompson. Mr. Stuart will be sworn in as Prime Minister at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday.

Mr Thompson died, with his family at his side; wife Mara and daughters Mischa, Oya & Osa- Marie at around 2:10 a.m. on Saturday at his home in Mapps, St Philip.