Bridgetown, 24 October, 2010:  It is with deepest regret and sadness that I learnt of the passing of the Prime Minister of Barbados, the Hon David J. H. Thompson.  In the two years since assuming my post as Chief Executive Officer of the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF), I had the pleasure of working with Prime Minister Thompson in his capacity as Chairman of the CDF Resource Mobilisation Task Force of the CARICOM Heads of Government.

Prime Minister Thompson will be remembered as one of the brightest Caribbean stars of his generation.  A measured man, his formidable intellect, deft organisational skills, strategic but quiet resolve, determination, commitment to public service and love for Barbados were central to his success.0.

Prime Minister Thompson’s passing at such a young age is therefore a particularly deep loss. He accomplished much in his 48 years, but now we can only imagine how much more he could have achieved as Prime Minister of Barbados and as a leading Caribbean statesman.

The staff of the CDF and myself benefitted from Prime Minister Thompson’s very open and approachable disposition, always willing to go the extra mile in furtherance of efforts to position the CDF to contribute in a material way to the deepening and strengthening of the CARICOM integration process.  In this regard, we will particularly miss his wise counsel and caring disposition.
 

 On behalf of the Board and staff of the CARICOM Development Fund, I extend to the Government and People of Barbados our profound condolences.  To Mrs. Mara Thompson,  Micsha,  Oya and Osa-Marie, Prime Minister Thompson’s mother, father, siblings and extended family,  there is little one can say that will be adequate to treat with your loss. Only the passage of time, the legacy of the Honourable David Thompson, and the fond memories shared will assuage your pain.

Conscious of the inadequacy of our words, the Board and staff of the CDF wish especially for Mrs. Thompson and their daughters, upon whom the Prime Minister doted, the peace and strength to cope during this difficult time in the full knowledge that you are in the thoughts and prayers of the citizens of our region.

May the soul of the late Prime Minister, the Honourable David Thompson rest in eternal peace.