It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE.  Our first Premier and first Member Emeritus passed away on Monday, November 11, 2019. 

The Honourable Member passed away around 2:00 p.m. surrounded by family members at his home in McNamarra on Tortola. 

Honourable O’Neal dedicated his life to the service of others and was a strong and principled member of Government for 39 years. Above all, it was his warm, personal qualities that brought special lustre to his years in public and political life.   

On behalf of the Honourable Speaker, all Members of the House of Assembly, both current and former, and staff of the Office of the House of Assembly, we extend our deepest condolences to Mr. O’Neal’s family, friends and all those who loved him. 

His leadership, tireless advocacy and commitment to country will be sorely missed. 

In the coming days, I will be meeting with his family as we prepare the House of Assembly for an official funeral for Member Emeritus Honourable O’Neal, who served this Territory well. 

Details will be forthcoming.