Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit believes that a special framework should be put in place to recognize persons who have excelled and contributed to the promotion of Dominica’s culture far and wide.
He was speaking as a special guest on the Creole HeartBeat Program hosted by Ambassador Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles on Wednesday.
The Prime Minister made special mention of the late national icon Fitzroy Dyer Williams who died in Martinique after a long illness on March 9, 2025.
“Fitzroy was a national icon, a musician, extraordinary, one who committed his entire life to Dominica and promoting Dominica’s culture and also creating culture,” Skerrit said. “I agree that a special framework should be put in place to recognize those persons, not only during their death or after their death but during their lifetime to ensure these persons are recognized for the contribution that they made.”
He continued, “Fitzroy was able to create music and I do not think that any of the existing or past bands or musicians can say that Fitzroy did not have a part to play in their success. So, I agree with you entirely that we need to consider a special arrangement for people like that, not only during their death, but during their lifetime.”
“I give you the assurance that [this is] something I will take note of…” Skerrit added.
Meanwhile, he revealed that the Ministry of Culture is working with the family with respect to the arrangements for the funeral of the late Fitzroy Williams.
Dominica is set to bid farewell to renowned music icon Fitzroy Dyer Williams this Saturday, April 5, 2025, with a funeral mass at Our Lady of Fair Heaven Chapel in Roseau. The service, which will begin at 10 AM, follows a week of tributes honoring the legacy of the beloved artist.
The week of remembrance began with a “Thunderbirds Tribute” on Tuesday, April 1, at Harlem Plaza in New Town.
On Friday, April 4, a “Prayer Vigil & Celebration of Life” will be held at Treetops, Valley Road, where friends and family will share touching memories. Community members are also expected to reflect on Williams’ remarkable talent, particularly his ability to blend traditional Dominican sounds with modern influences, creating music that resonated across generations.
The tributes are expected to emphasize the fact that Williams was not just a musician, but a cultural ambassador for Dominica, whose songs often highlighted the beauty and struggles of life in the Caribbean. His contributions to the music industry will also be underscored in testimonials from peers who are anticipated to speak about his generosity in mentoring young artists and his unwavering commitment to uplifting local culture.
The funeral service is expected to draw a large crowd of supporters, reflecting the deep legacy Williams leaves behind.