Michael Dunkley, the Premier and Minister for National Security, extended condolences after the passing of two prominent individuals who are recognised in their own right in Bermuda and internationally.

The Premier confirmed that he had spoken to Perry Christie, the Prime Minister of Bahamas, to offer condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda after the sudden and tragic deaths of Dr Myles Munroe and his wife, Ruth.

“This afternoon I had an opportunity to speak to Prime Minister Christie and convey our sincerest sympathies,” Mr Dunkley said. “I shared with the Prime Minister that Dr Munroe was a great friend of Bermuda and an inspirational figure across the world.

“The tragic passing of this international man of God will be greatly felt and, here in Bermuda, we are keeping the family and friends of Dr Munroe and the people of the Bahamas in our thoughts and prayers.”

On an added sombre note, the Premier also expressed his condolences after learning of the death of Dr Neil Burnie.

Mr Dunkley said: “I have known Neil for many years and this is an especially tragic loss. Neil will always be remembered as a person who had an immense love for our natural world. He was passionate about preserving our oceanic wildlife and our environment, and his advocacy will be truly missed.

“He was a man who embraced all that life had to offer, an adventurer at heart, and a man who touched so many lives. On behalf of the Government, I wish to extend my sincerest condolences to Neil’s family, friends and colleagues.”

The Progressive Labour Party also paid its respects to Dr Burnie. “The Bermuda Progressive Labour Party would like to extend our condolences to the family of Dr Neil Burnie,” the Opposition said in a statement. “The tragic loss of this contributor to our community should be mourned by all Bermudians. We extend our prayers and best wishes to his family.”