The Dominica Air and Sea Ports Authority (DASPA) has issued an official public notice confirming that Woodbridge Bay Port at Fond Cole and Portsmouth Port will pause all operational activities for three hours on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Starting at 8:00 a.m. local time, the temporary shutdown will clear the way for a solemn remembrance ceremony honoring Ian Pinard, DASPA’s beloved former Chief Executive Officer and General Manager who recently passed away.
Per the authority’s official statement, standard cargo handling, passenger services and all other regular port functions will restart immediately once the commemorative gathering concludes. The DASPA team extended a sincere note of gratitude to the public, shipping companies, and commercial stakeholders for their patience and cooperation as the port community mourns the loss of its leader.
Beyond his transformational leadership at the helm of DASPA, Pinard leaves behind a decades-long legacy of dedicated public service that shaped national development across Dominica. His career in public life began when he took office as Parliamentary Representative for the Soufrière Constituency, where he built a reputation for centering constituent needs and nurturing deep, lasting ties with local communities.
Pinard went on to serve in senior government roles across multiple administrations, including Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education and later Cabinet Minister for Public Works. Throughout his tenure in public office, he carried out his duties with consistent focus, discipline, and a commitment to public good. His work in both Parliament and Cabinet left an indelible mark on key national priorities, driving progress in critical infrastructure expansion and community-led development projects across the island.