Francis Tulloch: Jamaica has lost a venerable stalwart

THE EDITOR, Madam:

The Jamaican political landscape has lost one of its most venerable stalwarts with the passing of Francis Tulloch, former minister of tourism and former member of parliament for Eastern Hanover and, at various times since 1972, for St James Central, St James West Central and St James North Western.

Francis Tulloch’s life was devoted to the articulation of the concerns of Jamaicans, particularly the people of Jamaica, and to their representation in the halls of power. He was an indefatigable champion of the working class and a tireless advocate for the complete, integrated and inclusive development of Jamaica’s tourism industry and its critical support structures and institutions. For Francis, there could be no real development of any sector without the involvement of, and real benefits for, the people, being at the centre of the development process.

His representation of several western Jamaica constituencies redounded to the development, not only of the people and communities he represented, but for the residents of other adjoining constituencies and communities as well. There was no cause too great or too small for him to champion, in the process earning the nickname ‘Little David’.

Quite apart from his ministerial responsibility for tourism, he was known to be a tireless campaigner for the advancement of education, and lent his efforts to the planning and implementation of the massive school building programme undertaken by successive governments led by the People’s National Party since 1972.

Francis has passed from this earth but his vast contributions to building a better Jamaica are timeless, and his enormous legacy is immortal.

I express heartfelt condolences to his family. May the soul of this true Jamaican nation-builder rest in peace.

P.J. PATTERSON

Former Pri me Minister of Jamaica