Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness is leading tributes over the passing of veteran journalist Balford George Henry.

The 74-year-old former Jamaica Gleaner and Jamaica Observer journalist died yesterday following a period of illness.

In hailing Henry, Dr Holness expressed sadness at his passing, saying he “dedicated many years to journalism and public service, and contributed to Jamaica’s national conversation through his work. His career included important years at the Jamaica Observer and the Jamaica Information Service.

Continuing, the Prime Minister remembers, “Balford as a committed journalist who understood the responsibility that comes with telling Jamaica’s story. His work reflected a deep knowledge of our politics, our people and the issues affecting our country. His passing is a loss to Jamaica’s media fraternity and to the many people who knew and worked with him over the years.

He extended heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and the wider journalism community. 

For her part, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, described Henry as “a first-rate journalist” who was committed to his craft.

 According to her, Henry was an “outstanding writer and questioner whose easy-going demeanour belied the penetrating nature of his questions. I had great respect for Balford. He was always professional in his interactions and in his journalistic pursuits. He was sharp, he was keen, he could be tough, but he was always fair.”

The Minister has offered sincere condolences to Henry’s family and colleagues. Former colleagues, Arthur Hall and Colin Steer, also paid their respects to Henry.