No state funeral for former Dominican PM

by Paul Charles
Caribbean Net News Dominica Correspondent

Friday, September 9, 2005

ROSEAU, Dominica: Dame Eugenia Charles will be buried on Wednesday in a private funeral, according to a family spokesman, who stated that the former Prime Minister said no to a state burial before her death on Tuesday.

Dame Eugenia, 86, died in Martinique where she went for a hip replacement operation. Her body will be flown back to Dominica on Friday afternoon. 

Dr Bernard Yankey, a former Caribbean Development Bank employee and a close associate of Dame Eugenia, told the local media on Thursday, that the government’s offer of state funeral could not be accepted.

“Dame Eugenia expressed her wish for a non-official funeral service about eight years ago and this wish is being strictly observed,” he said on behalf of her family.

Dr Yankey said there may be an opportunity for the state to participate in the funeral service which will be held in her birthplace of Pointe Michel, a west coast village which is three miles south of the capital Roseau.

“This is, however, being arranged with deepest appreciation to the government for whatever assistance that may be requested,” he said.

“It’s expected to be of a very high standard and in keeping with the stature of the late Dame,” he added.

Another request of the late PM is that her body not be exposed for public viewing, according to the spokesman. 

Dr Yankey said several officials from regional and international countries are expected to attend the funeral which is scheduled to start at 10:00 east Caribbean time. 

Dame Eugenia, who ruled Dominica from 1980 to 1995, will be buried on her family burial ground alongside her father and brother in Pointe Michel. 

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