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Contact:
Rose Marie Harris
Tuesday, September 30, 2003 – The Government of Saint Lucia joins the
nation in mourning the death of former Foreign Affairs Minister George Odlum,
who passed away on Sunday morning September 28, 2003, after a prolonged battle
with cancer.
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Mr. George Odlum |
Mr. Odlum served the Government of Saint Lucia first as a
minister in the Labour Party administration elected after the 1979 general
elections and then again after the 1997 polls. Between that time, he served as
Saint Lucia’s Ambassador to the United Nations.
As Foreign Minister, Mr. Odlum was the architect of the government’s foreign
policy, the highlight of which was the establishment of relations with the
People’s Republic of China (PRC). He also championed the cause of the developing
countries, particularly of the non-independent territories in various corners of
the world.
Mr. Odlum’s former Cabinet colleagues were kept abreast of his condition
throughout the course of his illness, especially during his painful final days.
Cabinet Secretary Dr. James Fletcher says, that as a mark of mourning and
respect on Mr. Odlum’s passing, the Government of Saint Lucia has decreed that
all flags on government buildings and other government agencies should be flown
at half mast from September 29, 2003, until further notice.
As a former member of Parliament and government minister, Mr. Odlum also
qualifies for an official burial, which will be accorded.
Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Mr. Odlum’s family and an
official statement will be made as to date and venue of the proceedings.
Meanwhile, Minister of Commerce, Tourism, Investment and Consumer Affairs,
Honourable Philip J. Pierre returned home Monday September 29, 2003 to assume
the position of Acting Prime Minister. Upon his immediate return, Mr. Pierre
presided over Monday’s Cabinet of Ministers meeting. Among items discussed on
the day’s packed agenda were plans for the official funeral for the late former
Foreign Affairs Minister, George Odlum.
The Cabinet meeting also discussed plans for the internment of former Police
Commissioner Mr. Brian Bernard.
The Cabinet of Minister were also updated on the state of recovery of the
Honourable Prime Minister following his recent illness in New York.
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