BARBADOS – The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is mourning the passing of Pamela Richards, former United States Virgin Islands (USVI) commissioner of tourism and CTO chairman.

Current CTO Chairman Kenneth Bryan said the USVI and the Caribbean had lost “a tireless leader” who championed the cause of the regional tourism industry.

Richards’ dedication to tourism and numerous important causes throughout the Virgin Islands had helped to advance socio-economic development and quality of life in the USVI, said Bryan.

“She was an exemplar when it came to service, and her passion, visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have left an indelible mark on the region,” Bryan added.

“During her chairmanship of the CTO from 2004 to 2006, the organisation embarked on several initiatives to strengthen Caribbean tourism, including improving tourism data collection across the region, expanding training and development for staff in the tourism sector, developing a world-class membership site focused on best practices, expanding public relations activities, and committing to public-private sector-focused sustainable development and cooperation through an MOU with the Caribbean Hotel Association.”

Richards also led the USVI in expertly hosting the CTO’s annual Caribbean Tourism Conference meeting in St Thomas in October 2005.

Chairman Bryan extended condolence to Richards’ family, friends, and the Government and people of the UVI.