(CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana) Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has extended sympathy to the government and people of Haiti following the death of former Prime Minister, the Honourable Georges Jean-Jacques Smarck Michel.

The Secretary-General said that the former Prime Minister would be remembered for his efforts to boost Haiti’s economy and for his contribution to the wellbeing of the people of Haiti.

The text of the message reads:

`On behalf of the Caribbean Community, I extend heartfelt condolences to the Government and People of the Republic of Haiti as the country mourns the loss of the Honourable Georges Jean-Jacques Smarck Michel, former Minister for Commerce and Industry (1991) and Prime Minister (November 1994 to October 1995). The Community's expressions of condolence are offered particularly to the bereaved family and friends of the dearly departed as they endure this period of mourning. Mr. Michel became Prime Minister at a crucial turning point in the history of Haiti, the return to democratic government in 1994 following the military coup d'etat of 1991. He will be remembered for his efforts to jumpstart Haiti's economy through his advocacy for economic reform as well as for his contribution to the wellbeing of the people of Haiti through answering the call to duty and service to the public.’