By Staff Writer
ROSEAU, Dominica, Sept 22, CMC – Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit Tuesday paid tribute to the family of Desiree John, the wife of Dominica’s first prime minister Patrick John, who died at the Dominica-Friendship Hospital early Tuesday. She was 78 years old.
The cause of death has not been disclosed, but family members said she died in the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital
Skerrit, who is leading the Dominica Labour Party (DLP) that John led when the island attained its political independence from Britain in 1978, told Parliament that while Mrs John did not hold office, Dominica was grateful for her contribution to nation building alongside her late husband, who died in July 2021 at the age of 83.
“That in itself is a serious responsibility and during very difficult periods of our country’s history, but she stood steadfast in the service of Dominica, and we are very grateful for her service.”
Skerrit said that while the Cabinet had taken a decision to recognise the service and the contribution of former prime ministers by providing them with facilitation, the Cabinet also further amended that decision
“I believe that the time will have to come at some point where the Parliament needs to have this as an act of Parliament, so that beyond any political considerations, those matters are squarely settled,” Skerrit added.
Mrs John is survived by her seven children and her brother, former Windward Islands cricketer Thomas Kentish.
CMC/sg/ir/2027
