The small Caribbean nation of Dominica is in mourning this week following the sudden, unexpected death of Ian Pinard, a former government minister who had most recently taken up the post of Chief Executive Officer at the Dominica Air and Seaport Authority (DASPA). Leading the tributes to Pinard is the country’s United Progressive Party (UPP), headed by opposition leader Joshua Francis, which has released an official statement extending profound sympathies to the late public servant’s family, friends and close loved ones.
Over decades of public life, Pinard occupied a range of senior roles across the Dominican public sector, consistently demonstrating unwavering dedication and high standards of service to the nation’s citizens. Even after holding senior cabinet office, he remained committed to advancing Dominica’s growth, answering the call once again to lead DASPA in his latest role – a decision that underscored his lifelong devotion to national progress.
UPP officials emphasized that Pinard’s loss is felt far beyond his immediate family circle, rippling through every corner of the Dominican community. The passing of the long-serving public figure also offers a moment of national reflection: it serves as a reminder that public service to a country rises above partisan political divides, and that all contributions to national well-being deserve equal recognition and respect.
On behalf of the entire party, Francis reiterated the UPP’s deepest condolences to Pinard’s family as they navigate their grief, noting that the widespread outpouring of support from across Dominica and the enduring impact of Pinard’s decades of work should bring some measure of comfort in this difficult time. The statement closed with a prayer for peaceful rest for Pinard’s soul.