The Hon. Pierre Charles died at the relatively young age of 49. He acceded to the Prime Ministership of Dominica some three years ago, following a similarly tragic and unexpected event, the passing of then Prime Minister, Hon. Rosie Douglas.

As Prime Minister, the Hon. Pierre Charles assumed the leadership of Dominica at a most critical juncture in the development and history of that country. His quiet fortitude, strength of character, forthrightness, commitment and dedication, yet personal gentleness and gentility were all features that marked his approach to the tasks with which he was entrusted. He was able to shepherd his country through some of its most perilous economic challenges, and although circumstances are still difficult, he was able to lay down the groundwork for stabilizing the situation and create the basis for eventual return to sustainable growth. In this process, his personal attributes were able to win the confidence of his people, as shown by their willingness to make the sacrifices required to achieve the national objectives.

Prime Minister Charles exhibited not only great political courage, but also personal courage in his leadership efforts. Notwithstanding his awareness of his sensitive health condition, he led by example, and soldiered on in the face of the threat to his continued good health. His was the ultimate sacrifice.

We applaud the courage and dedication which he demonstrated in his lifelong commitment to the service of his people and his country. Personal goals and gains took second place to service, and no potential price was too great to pay for the good of his country. In his own words – “if it is for the good of the country, it must be done.” This was the motto by which he lived, and died.

He was firmly committed to the processes and goals of regional integration, especially the initiative to establish an OECS Economic Union. His vision on this was clear, and was reinforced by his country's economic experiences. As a Member of the Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on Economic Union, he provided significant guidance to the process.

His early passing is therefore a loss not only to his family and the people of Dominica , but to the OECS as well as the wider Caribbean . He shall be sadly missed.

May he rest in the peace he so richly deserves.

OECS Secretariat
Morne Fortune
Castries , Saint Lucia