The people of Antigua & Barbuda and the Caribbean have lost one of its most dedicated and committed sons, Sir Lester Bryant Bird, National Hero and former Prime Minister.
His passing has created a void in Caribbean politics that will not be easily filled.
There is no doubt that a special page in Caribbean history will be reserved for the sterling contributions delivered over decades, by this champion of regionalism.
Sir Lester was indeed a strong advocate and practitioner of Caribbean cooperation and integration and this was evident when he joined me and other leaders, in 1981, as signatories to the Treaty of Basseterre.
During my tenure as Prime Minister of St. Kitts & Nevis, I had the honour of working with Sir Lester in pursuit of many initiatives that today have delivered enormous benefits to the people of the OECS, in particular.
Sir Lester had a strong conviction that the Caribbean needed to present a united front and speak in one voice, and to use our strength in numbers to increase our global influence in international forums, such as the United Nations and the Organization of American States, OAS.
My wife, Lady Simmonds, joins me in extending our heartfelt sympathies to his family, his Party, the Government, and the people of Antigua & Barbuda.
While we mourn his passing, we celebrate his achievements and service to mankind.
Rest well, Sir Lester!
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