Dominica’s Member of Parliament for the Roseau North Constituency, Miriam Blanchard, has resigned from her seat, citing medical reasons.

Speaker of the House of Assembly Joseph Isaac announced on Friday, June 12, that he had received a letter from Blanchard dated June 9 informing him of her decision to step down.

Under Dominica’s Constitution, the resignation of a member of the House of Assembly takes effect once the Speaker receives the written notice, making the Roseau North seat vacant.

Isaac thanked Blanchard, who served as Minister for Labour, Public Service Reform, Social Partnership, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development, for her service to her constituents and the wider Dominican public, wishing her well following her resignation.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit also paid tribute to Blanchard, describing her nearly decade-long contribution to public service as significant.

Skerrit said Blanchard served in Cabinet during a period that included the country’s recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Erika, as well as work in planning, economic development, and support for workers, public servants and small businesses.

He said Blanchard’s resignation provides an opportunity for the country to support her as she focuses on her recovery.

“Miriam gave of herself entirely to the advancement of our people, and it is now time that we, as a grateful country, do the same for her,” Skerrit said.

“The people of Roseau North have known her not only as a Minister, but as a tireless advocate who made sure their community shared fully in Dominica’s progress. As she steps away to focus fully on making a complete recovery, I pray that the same remarkable resilience which she brought to the service of our country continues to hold her in good strain, bringing her comfort and renewed strength during this season of healing.”

The Prime Minister assured residents of Roseau North that their representation will continue and confirmed that a by-election will be held within the period outlined by the Constitution.