Kamla: Prince Philip was great inspiration

OPPOSITION Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar has sent her condolences on the passing of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh.

"I join the global community in offering my sincere condolences to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, all members of the royal family as well as the people of the United Kingdom on the passing of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh."

She said she was privileged to have met Philip when she served as chair-in-office of the Commonwealth during a visit to Australia in 2011.

"We sat together at the same dinner table and he proved to be a charming and jovial individual."

Persad-Bissessar said for decades Philip provided great inspiration, innovative ideas and service to the Commonwealth.

"Prince Philip embodied courage, dedication and service not only to the United Kingdom but to the world as many of his lifetime achievements motivated our entire global community."

The stories of his naval bravery in World War II, she said, provided great strength to many in the protective services within the Commonwealth.

As a husband, she said, he offered "unwavering and relentless" support for the queen, who is the longest-serving monarch.

"Such dedication and love is priceless," she said.

Persad-Bissessar said his passion for the development and enhancement of young people will form part of his legacy as thousands of young people across the globe were able to enhance their lives through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

"His love for humanity, dedication to family, commitment to the UK people and his ability to always stand strong in the face of adversity as in World War II made Prince Philip a giant amongst men. May his soul rest in peace."