Official Statement by Prime Minister the Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit on the Resignation of the Honourable Miriam Blanchard

Following today's announcement regarding the resignation of the Honourable Miriam Blanchard as the Parliamentary Representative for Roseau North, I wish to express the deepest sentiments of a grateful government and nation for her extraordinary years of service.

As I reflect, I look back with immense gratitude on Miriam’s decision to answer the call to enter public life, choosing to raise her hand and be counted when the country needed selfless service. For nearly ten years, Miriam served the people of Dominica in Cabinet with distinction — leading the reconstruction of our country's infrastructure after Tropical Storm Erika, guiding our planning and economic development and championing our workers, our public servants and our small businesses. Throughout this journey, even as the inherent fragilities of life and health became apparent, her perseverance never wavered. Miriam gave of herself entirely to the advancement of our people, and it is now

time that we, as a grateful country, do the same for her. It is our turn to lift her up, to wrap her in our collective support and to hold her up continuously in prayer.

The people of Roseau North have known her not only as a Minister, but as a tireless advocate who made sure their community shared fully in Dominica's progress. As she steps away to focus fully on making a complete recovery, I pray that the same remarkable resilience which she brought to the service of our country continues to hold her in good strain, bringing her comfort and renewed strength during this season of

healing.

I want to assure the residents of Roseau North that your interests will continue to be served without interruption, and that a by-election will be held within the period prescribed by our Constitution. The work continues.

Miriam, your legacy is securely written into the progress of our nation. As you face this next chapter, please be reassured that the Government and the Dominica Labour Party

will continue to stand by your side, supporting you and your family in every way possible.