Good evening to all Virgin Islanders, residents, and visitors.

The Virgin Islands community is saddened by the news of the passing of former legislator, Honourable Cyril Lewis Walters, MBE, earlier today.

He was well-known, very highly respected, and much-loved for his many contributions to the Virgin Islands, for which we remain forever grateful. He was an educator who taught for 34 years in our schools and contributed to developing the Virgin Islands’ human capital and, consequentially the Islands’ development.

In 1975, he became an administrative officer in the Chief Minister’s Office and rose to the rank of Permanent Secretary.

He won two consecutive General Elections, in 1986 and 1990, on the Virgin Islands Party ticket, and represented the Eight District in the then British Virgin Islands Legislative Council. He served as Minister of Health, Education and Welfare during his political career. He was also a dedicated member of the East End Methodist Church and the Lions Club.

He was awarded Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1986 for his contribution to the Civil Service, now called the Public Service.

His legacy is carried on by his children, who are accomplished in their fields as they continue to serve the Virgin Islands with patriotic dedication.

As Acting Premier, I have contacted the family of the late Honourable C. Lewis Walters to convey my deepest condolences on behalf of the Premier and Government of the Virgin Islands, and on my own behalf and that of my family, and the people of the Virgin Islands.

I join the Virgin Islands community to pay tribute to his good works and sterling legacy.

May God bless his soul, and may he rest in eternal peace.

I thank you.