Holness hails Manning as stalwart of CARICOM

Prime Minister Andrew Holness has extended condolences to the people of Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) on the death of their former prime minister, Patrick Manning.

Manning, 69, died yesterday, just a day after he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia.

In a letter to T&T Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, Holness said Manning was "a stalwart in seeking the achievement of the CARICOM ideal" and him for his "contribution to the area of regional security and his high hopes for the growth and development of a strong Caribbean society and civilisation".

Holness said Manning "will long be remembered for his fearless commitment and dedication to advancing the political and economic development of his country towards achieving a better quality of life for all citizens of the twin-island republic."

Holness remembered Manning's passion for leadership, having given up his first love as a geologist.

The prime minister said "politics became his life and for him was the most rewarding job to which one could aspire, as stated in his own words: 'it has given me the opportunity to shape a nation'."

Holness asked Rowley to convey Jamaica's condolences to Manning's widow, Hazel, and sons Brian and David.