Dear Editor,
Many and richly deserving tributes will be extended to Dr. Roger Luncheon, a great son of Guyana, possessing a most versatile mind and heart of gold, unsurpassed with love of country. Some aspects of Dr. Luncheon’s tenure as Cabinet Secretary and Head of Guyana’s Public Service may not be widely known. For instance, he displayed extensive and consistent efforts for enhanced managerial competence and professional integrity of public servants, here in Guyana and in CARICOM. This he did by ensuring support and actively participating in retreats and seminars of CARICAD – the Carib-bean Centre for Development Adminis-tration. His views were forthright, inspiring and grounded in lived experience that made him respected and admired. A sizeable number remained serving Guyana and their countries inspired and emulating Dr. Luncheon’s regard for efficiency and honesty in public service, knowing lines that must not be crossed and wishing leadership that is fair, honest and caring.
Public service reforms of the 1990s have faded but to rebuild the quality and integrity of Guyana’s public service could be a lasting tribute to Dr. Luncheon’s selfless service to all of Guyana. His vision embraced the wider world of developing countries as in the African, Caribbean & Pacific (ACP) Group of States (now OACPS). With due consideration, he ensured that the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation & Development would be a pivotal participant in an ACP-EDF Forestry Research Network. He remained a true friend of Iwokrama and grasped the great role of Guyana’s forests in reducing the global climate crisis. Dr. Luncheon’s passing leaves many in sadness but his greatness will be a legacy of which all Guyanese must be proud. May he enjoy eternal peace.
Sincerely,
P.I. Gomes
