There has been an outpouring of tributes and condolences on the death of Reginald Dumas, retired diplomat, head of the public service and Newsday columnist.

Dumas, 88, died on the night of March 7 at the Scarborough General Hospital, Tobago, days after major surgery for a gastro-intestinal condition.

The announcement came in a Facebook post by his daughter, Sonja Dumas.

'My father transitioned tonight. He fought an extended challenge of gastrointestinal failure over the past few weeks...

'For many, he was a great diplomat, a great orator and great political analyst. He fought tirelessly for good governance. His generosity touched countless people, as did his wit (which was often acerbic).'

She said she intended to follow in the footsteps of her father who leaves behind a legacy of integrity and honesty.

Dumas attended Queen's Royal College, Port of Spain, Cambridge University and the Institut Universaire de Haute Etudes Internationales, Geneva.

He spent over 30 years in the Public Service, both locally and internationally, before retiring in 1991.

Foreign and Caricom Affairs Minister Dr Amery Browne described Dumas to Newsday as one of the country's most outstanding diplomats.

"(He was) a man of high standards of integrity and class. Always well-spoken and not prone to confusion and disrespect. He was an exemplar, a reliable political analyst and, during his career, was a great permanent secretary and ambassador of TT. His contributions must be cherished and his legacy must be respected. I extend condolences to his family and loved ones and join with the national community in paying tribute to the life and service of the great Reginald Dumas."

Among his postings were as High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, High Commissioner to Canada and High Commissioner to India. He also served as the Ambassador to Washington and to the Organisation of American States.

Opposition leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar told Newsday Dumas was known for his fortitude, depth of knowledge, public analyses, and forthright character.

"TT was fortunate to have Mr Dumas as a senior public officer and national commentator. His candour was valued especially during divisive national issues. Mr Dumas has left a good legacy. The UNC extends its deepest condolences to his loved ones. May he rest in peace."

Most recently, Dumas was a frequent columnist for the Newsday. Newsday editorial consultant Judy Raymond commented, "The embodiment of integrity, Reggie Dumas was an invaluable resource for the media for many years, and not just for Newsday, where we were very happy to have the benefit of his balanced and informed views in his column.

"He was a fount of knowledge of the way things should be done and the ways in which they were not being done correctly. He was generous with his time and never failed to share his knowledge and experience with patience and good humour. I can't think of anyone who can replace him."

Martin Daly, SC, a former independent senator and a fellow newspaper columnist, said