THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has lauded the late former Prime Minister of Grenada, George Ignatius Brizan, CMG, CBE, for his sterling contribution to advancing the democratic principles within the Region. CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, hailed the “unique vision” of the late founder member and leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) held for Grenada, the wider Caribbean Community and the Caribbean Disaspora.
Mr Brizan was buried on Friday in Grenada.
The Secretary-General said that it was in the true spirit of nationalism, bi-partisanship and a sincere quest to truly advance the Grenadian people that the former Prime Minister served the beloved Spice Island, even after stepping down as Premier.
Mr. Brizan’s distinguished career spread across disciplines, with commendable service rendered as a Minister of Agriculture, of Finance, and of Trade, as well as a notable career in the field of Education. In 1995, Mr. Brizan attained the highest political office as Grenada’s sixth Prime Minister for a four-month term.
Secretary-General LaRocque said that the former Grenadian Prime Minister will probably be most fondly remembered for his work with students at the Grenada Boys’ Secondary School where he was not just a teacher of History and Economics, but also a mentor to the students, raising their level of social and political consciousness about local, regional and international issues.
“Indeed, it has been reported that it was not uncommon for students to use the colloquial phrase “to be a Brizan”, expressing their desire to follow in the footsteps of such an esteemed Son of the Soil.”
“Former Prime Minister Brizan’s lifelong example of the pursuit of excellence and duty towards his country, and by extension to his Region shall be long remembered,” Secretary-General LaRocque said.