4 days ago
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Senior Reporter
Members of the People’s National Movement and its Women’s League, who were all dressed in white, yesterday gathered at Balisier House in Port-of-Spain to honour late Minister in the Ministry of Education and Member of Parliament for D’Abadie/O’Meara, Lisa Morris-Julian, and two of her children.
Morris-Julian, 48, died on Monday in a fire at her Arima residence, along with her six-year-old son, Jesiah, and 25-year-old daughter Xianne.
The former government minister and MP was described as a valuable asset to the party who will be dearly missed.
The memorial service drew members of her constituency, her surviving children, family—including her mother Ann Morris—and close relatives.
Speaking at the memorial service, PNM chairman and Energy Minister Stuart Young described Morris-Julian as the backbone of the party, emphasising her dedication and selflessness.
“Lisa was the most selfless, giving, pure, and genuine soul. She exemplified everything good—humble, committed, and always ready to serve. What many may not know is that Lisa was our keyboard warrior behind the scenes. She drafted the difficult releases and rallied the troops with unwavering dedication,” Young said.
He added, “On Monday, the PNM lost one of our greatest sisters and, in my humble opinion, one of the greatest assets we have ever had. Let us give her a round of applause for the incredible legacy she leaves behind.”
The evening began with interfaith worship, reflecting the diverse religious communities of the D’Abadie/O’Meara constituency. Cabinet Ministers in attendance included National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds; Communication Minister Symon de Nobriga; Rural and Local Government Minister Faris Al-Rawi; Education Minister Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Trade and Industry Minister Paula Gopee-Scoon; Attorney General Reginald Armour, and Finance Minister Colm Imbert. Also present were Port-of-Spain Mayor Chinua Alleyne and San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris.
Speaking on behalf of the PNM Women’s League, second vice chair Marlene Tobias delivered a message from lady chair Camille Robinson-Regis, who was out of the country.
“Lisa made us better—she made her colleagues in Parliament better, the House of Representatives a better place, and, for many, the country a better place,” Tobias read.
She added, “As someone fiercely devoted to her family, Lisa experienced the devastating loss of her father about nine months ago. This loss pained her deeply, and she sometimes second-guessed herself, wondering if she had been a good enough daughter as the eldest child. Her dedication, humility, and unwavering commitment to family and public service will always be remembered.”
A state-assisted funeral is being planned to honour the late minister and her children, with details to be announced soon.
English (US) ·