JIS opens condolence book for Ian Boyne

A condolence book was opened yesterday for late veteran journalist and Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Ian Boyne at the agency's head-quarters located at 58 Half-Way Tree Road in St Andrew.

The book will be available for signing by members of the public from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays.

Boyne died on December 18 after a brief period of illness.

Reflecting on her relationship with the veteran journalist, CEO of the JIS Donna-Marie Rowe said that he was "a true friend".

"His last message to us as a JIS family urged us to show love and appreciation when we can rather than wait until someone is sick or passes on. Ian showed his appreciation to his JIS family daily, and he knew how much we loved him. His loss has left a huge void, and our hearts are broken into little pieces right now," she said.

LONG JIS CAREER

Boyne had a long career with the JIS, first joining the entity in 1976 when it was known as the Agency for Public Information, where he was a features writer and television broadcaster.

As deputy CEO, Boyne's responsibilities included serving as chief state liaison to the Office of the Prime Minister, Office of the Governor General, and the Office of the Leader of the Opposition, and giving oversight to the Research, Publications and Production (Editorial and Photo) Division.

He also hosted the agency's flagship interview programme, Issues and Answers.

Boyne was perhaps best known for his popular interview show Profile, which celebrated 30 years this year. He also hosted Religious Hardtalk and was a columnist for The Sunday Gleaner.

He is survived by his widow, Margaret, and three children.