The following is a statement by Acting Prime Minister Mia Mottley on the death of Leroy Brathwaite.

IT WAS INDEED with deep sadness that we learnt this [yesterday] morning of the passing of Livingstone Leroy Brathwaite, JP.

We will recall that Leroy first came to public life in 1981 when he contested the general election for the St Michael North East constituency on a Democratic Labour Party ticket.

Though unsuccessful on that outing, he returned to win the seat in 1986.
He served as parliamentary representative until 1994, holding the post of Chairman of Committees from 1987 until then.

Despite being my political opponent, the Leroy I knew was a very pleasant man. We enjoyed extremely cordial relations and we never spoke of each other in any disparaging terms.

His was a traditional Barbadian upbringing, having been educated at Wesley Hall Boys' School. A devout Methodist, he rose to become a Lay Preacher in the Methodist Church in 1959. Characterised by a quiet dignity and strong beliefs, he was known to be a forceful debater, always holding true to his principles.

Leroy was a long-serving member of the Executive and General Councils of the Democratic Labour Party, which he joined in September 1960 and to which he remained steadfast. He served first as chairman of the St Michael North East branch from 1970 to 1981. Then, for three years up to 1973, he was assistant secretary of the party and general secretary from then until 1978. He was a life member of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and was selected as an observer to the Suriname elections in 1988.

Up to the time of his death, Leroy remained active in the affairs of his party, rarely missing council meetings.

And for his distinguished service to the DLP and his country, he received the Golden Jubilee Award on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the party in April last year.

To the family and friends of this Barbadian son, we extend sincere condolences. May their faith uphold them in this time of mourning and may his soul rest in peace.