I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing earlier today, of Mrs. Dorien Pile, one of Barbados’ most outstanding educators since Independence. Mrs. Pile was the first and only female headmistress to date, of Combermere School.

I always found her to be a kind, compassionate person, who displayed a quiet dignity which enabled her to achieve what she set out to. She exemplified the best of what Barbados has to offer.

As a young Minister I benefitted from her wisdom and quiet counsel. Those were years I thoroughly enjoyed, and this was due in no small measure to the excellent and enjoyable working relationship that we developed and indeed that I developed with other Head Teachers and teachers across Barbados.

Given her experience in the field of education for almost forty years as teacher, administrator and consultant, and the ease with which she was able to communicate with our young people she was an obvious choice for appointment by me, as Attorney General, to the National Commission on Law and Order.

Mrs. Pile brought her considerable talent to the Commission of which she was a valued member under the chairmanship of the late Sir Roy Marshall.

I was happy to see her earlier this week, one Monday and I want offer, on my own behalf and on behalf of the Barbados Labour Party, my deepest sympathies to her husband, Colville and her son David. May she rest in peace.