Devon Evans, Gleaner Writer
OCHO RIOS, St. Ann:
THE JAMAICA Labour Party (JLP) has expressed sadness over the passing of its caretaker/ councillor for the Ocho Rios division, businessman Cyril Dennis, popularly called 'Mr. D.'
Party leader Bruce Golding said the JLP was deeply saddened to learn of the death of one of its stalwarts who had given distinguished service to the constituency of north-east St. Ann and the Ocho Rios division in particular.
GOOD EXAMPLE
Mr. Golding said, however, that, while the JLP mourns the passing of Mr. Dennis, the party is still thankful to God for his life, his work and the example of service that he set.
The JLP leader was speaking on Saturday night at a special cocktail reception put on for members of the press by JLP deputy treasurer Daryl Vaz, at the Tropical Vibes Seafood Restaurant at Fisherman's Beach in Ocho Rios.
Mr. Dennis died on December 19 last year after losing his battle with cancer.
He had been an active member of the JLP for many years but came to the forefront of representational politics in 1997 when he was asked by then caretaker for north-east St. Ann, Michael Belnavis, to take over the chairmanship of the Ocho Rios division.
Mr. Dennis unsuccessfully contested the 1998 local government election against the PNP's Carol Jackson, but returned with a stronger campaign in the 2003 election and lost the Ocho Rios division in controversial style.
He was declared the winner of the preliminary count, then lost in the final count of ballots.
Also paying tribute to the late councillor/caretaker was Member of Parliament Shahine Robinson, who described him as a true Jamaican gentleman who carried out his duties in a willing and much dignified manner.
The funeral service for the late JLP caretaker is scheduled for today at the Ocho Rios Methodist Church starting at 11:00 am. Interment will be in the Ocho Rios cemetery.
