Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has announced that the Government of Dominica will “break from tradition” and accord the later former Speaker of the Dominica Parliament a “state Funeral.
Alix Boyd-Knights, who served as Speaker of the Dominica Parliament from 2000 to 2020 passed away at her residence on Tuesday, August 29, 2023.
At a news conference on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, Skerrit stated that during her extensive tenure as Speaker of the House of Assembly, which is the longest in Dominica’s history, Boyd-Knights approached her responsibilities with “passion and dedication.”
“She was firm, no-nonsense, and insisted on upholding strict parliamentary procedures and the rules of the house,” he stated.
According to the Dominican Leader, “Her leadership style, both as the House’s chair and as the head of the parliamentary Women’s Association, exemplified the strength and resilience women bring to leadership positions.”
He stated that she devoted a significant portion of her life to championing women’s rights and safeguarding the welfare of children in society adding that she collaborated with the government for years, advocating for the enhancement of laws concerning domestic violence, child maintenance, and children’s rights.
He expressed his deep personal and professional admiration for Boyd-Knights and also lauded her counsel and support, highlighting her role as “a valued colleague and advisor not only to him but also to the Dominica Labour Party (DLP).”
“I treasured her sound advice on political matters. And I’m thankful for her support of me and my colleagues over many years. I extend most heartfelt condolences to her family, her children, and her grandson Senator, Phillip Rolle, who now serves as Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly,” Skerrit stated.
“As a former Speaker of the House of Assembly, she will be accorded a state funeral and I am departing from the norm, because of the high regard and her contribution to the country for over 20 years as Speaker of the House of Assembly.”
The Government of Dominica he stated will provide further details on these arrangements at a subsequent date.