The Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) yesterday joined members of the media fraternity in paying tribute to veteran journalist Monica Dias, who died at the Andrews Memorial Hospital, in St Andrew, following a long battle with cancer.

"Dias, 56 years old, has contributed more than 35 years to the profession of journalism, having worked at The Gleaner Company for many years before taking up the post of communications officer at UNICEF Jamaica in 1990," the PAJ said in a release yesterday. "In addition to journalism, she was also known for her work in child rights advocacy, having been a founding member of the Jamaica Coalition on the Rights of the Child."

Former president of the PAJ, Desmond Allen, described Dias as a substantial human being who valued her relationships with people. He recalled the happy times they spent together while working together at The Gleaner Company for several years.

In paying tribute, Claire Forrester, former PAJ secretary and close friend, said Dias was a person of enormous credibility and "a true professional that she could always depend on."

Similar sentiments were expressed by Wilton Dyer, who worked closely with Dias at The Gleaner for many years.

Interested in the training

"She was a dedicated professional who paid meticulous attention to the fundamentals of journalism," said Dyer. "She wanted to improve it in the broadest sense, hence was interested in the training of journalists."

Photojournalist Headley 'Dellmar' Samuels and wife Carol, who were also Dias's close friends, said she fought her battle with cancer like a champion.

Dellmar also met Dias at The Gleaner in the late 1960s and developed a long friendship with her. He called her an excellent reporter with a great personality, and a hard worker with a brilliant mind.

Dias served the PAJ as assistant secretary for many years. Earlier this year, the PAJ gave her a special honour and sent good wishes for a speedy recovery. In the last few days, former PAJ president, Donna Ortega - along with Allen and Forrester - had visited Dias in the hospital. They said she was in high spirits, despite her pain and battle with the monster disease.

The PAJ extended condolences to her daughter, Cheryl Williams, and other relatives. Funeral arrangements are to be announced at a later date.

'She was a dedicated professional who paid meticulous attention to the fundamentals of journalism. She wanted to improve it in the broadest sense, hence was interested in the training of journalists.'