The government of Trinidad and Tobago has expressed profound sadness at the passing of Lisa Morris-Julian, Minister in the Ministry of Education and Member of Parliament for D’Abadie/O’Meara.
In an official statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister on December 16, the government extended its deepest condolences to Morris-Julian’s family, loved ones, and constituents. “Our collective thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time,” the release said.
Morris-Julian, along with two of her children, tragically perished in an early-morning house fire at their home on Farfan Street, Arima. Her husband and three other children managed to escape the blaze, according to reports from the Trinidad Express.
The statement highlighted Morris-Julian’s distinguished career and invaluable contributions to Trinidad and Tobago. Beginning as Mayor of the Royal Chartered Borough of Arima, she later served as the First Lady Vice Chair of the People’s National Movement’s (PNM) National Women’s League. Elected as MP for D’Abadie/O’Meara in 2020, she was set to contest the 2025 General Election as an unopposed candidate.
Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley, who appointed Morris-Julian as Minister in the Ministry of Education in 2020, praised her as “an unrelenting voice for her constituency, the Government, and the PNM,” and described her as a model of public service. “She will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to the people she served and the positive impact she had on countless lives,” the statement added.
Government officials, including Prime Minister Rowley, Planning and Development Minister Pennelope Beckles, Energy Minister Stuart Young, Youth Development and National Service Minister Foster Cummings, and Housing Minister Camille Robinson-Regis, visited the scene to provide comfort to grieving relatives and constituents.
Trinidad opposition party sends condolences
The island’s main opposition party, the United National Congress (UNC), also expressed shock and sent condolences following Morris-Julian’s passing.
In a statement issued by the party’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Kirk Meighoo, the UNC extended heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and called for strength during this difficult time.
“On behalf of the Political Leader and the entire party, we extend our deepest condolences to her family and pray that God grants them the strength to go through this extremely difficult time. May their souls rest in eternal peace,” the release stated.
