The Council, members and staff of the Barbados Employers’ Confederation extend deepest condolences to the wife, children and other members of the family of the late Prime Minister, the Honourable David John Howard Thompson and to the Government and people of Barbados.
We had the distinct pleasure of working with Prime Minister David Thompson, an affable person of immense depth and wit, in his substantive position of Minister of Labour.
As Prime Minister and Minister of Labour, he had a very good grasp of the issues facing both the employers and labour movements and was a strong advocate of developing a robust and meaningful Social Partnership.
This ensured the continued stability and development of an environment which promoted the best labour practices, consistent with good governance in the overall management of the economy.
Prime Minister Thompson was a friend of the Confederation and the employers’ groupings generally. The Barbados Employers’ Confederation had the distinct honour of having him address our 50th annual general meeting luncheon session on April 21. It was to be one of his last major addresses before having to take medical leave.
On that occasion, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of the role of human capital in taking Barbados to the next level of development, and encouraged the continuous review of our business models and to strive for improved efficiencies in our operations if we are to become globally competitive.
The late Prime Minister reminded us that we are all passengers on the MV Barbados; and that when this vessel is going through troubled waters, the captain and his crew expect all on board to play their part responsibly.
His contribution to public service and commitment to Barbados will never be forgotten. His passing was untimely and truly tragic.
May he rest in peace!