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STATEMENT
By
the Minister of Social Transformation,
Culture and Local Government
Hon. Menissa Rambally
On the Death of former Castries Mayor Mr. Joseph Desir
The Ministry of Social Transformation, Culture and Local Government has learned,
with deep regret, of the death of Mr. Joseph Desir, the first Mayor of Castries.
Mr. Desir, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday, first became a Councilor
when he won a seat in the Castries Town Council elections in 1964. Three years
later on March 1, 1967, he became the inaugural Mayor of Castries when the
former Town of Castries was elevated to the status of a City.
The late Mr. Desir served Castries in various positions on the Council for
sixteen (16) years until 1970, when he was replaced by Mayor Julian R. Hunte.
Others still alive who served with him also include Mrs. Heraldine Rock and Mr.
Hollis Bristol.
Mr. Desir was succeeded by several Mayors of Castries until 1980, when Local
Government Elections were done away with by the then Government of Saint Lucia.
He served the City Council with distinction and pride. He was an upright citizen
who worked hard to ensure the City lived up to its status as a Municipal
Corporation.
A popular Castries Jeweller throughout his working life, Mr. Desir eventually
gave up the trade in his latter years. But he never gave up his interest in the
City of Castries, often offering advice to Ministers and the Government of Saint
Lucia on how best to address recurring problems inherited from his time.
The Ministry of Social Transformation, the Castries City Council and all Local
Government Councils will miss Mr. Desir, whose contribution as the first Mayor
of Castries shall not be forgotten.
On behalf of the entire staff of my Ministry, I wish to extend sincere
condolences to Mr. Desir’s family.
Accordingly, I have instructed that the flags at the Castries City Council be
flown at half-mast until his burial and that his funeral be attended by the
Chairman, Councilors and staff of the City Council.
May his soul rest in peace.
Hon. Menissa Rambally
Minister for Social Transformation,
Culture and Local Government
July 20, 2005
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