Retired PLP deputy leader, Walter Roberts, reflects on his relationship with the late Dr. Eustace A. Cann through an interview with Beverley Causey-Smith.

Both men attended Berkeley Institute prior to attending college abroad. Mr.

Roberts obtained his Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1958 from Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario. He taught a Sandy's Secondary School from 1959 until 1962.

Dr. Cann encouraged his younger friend, Walter, to seek office in politics and he was elected for Sandy's South in 1963 and served until his retirement in 1998.

Mr. Roberts recalled: "Dr. Cann was the first to ask me to run in the upcoming 1963 election. Although I was reluctant, he persuaded me to do so. He used his political clout to rally support around my successful candidacy.'' How did you meet Dr. Cann and get to know him? "Dr. Cann was the chairman of Sandys Secondary School governing body when I first met him in 1958. Although I was a teach at the time at the school I got to know him more from our degrees of involvement in the political climate at that time.'' How would you describe Dr. Cann personally, as a doctor and a statesman? "Dr. Cann was one of the most unforgettable persons I have ever met. He was a captivating, persuasive speaker and communicator. His commitment to the interests of the black community was well known and respected.

"Both black and white politicians sought his advice. Just as a barbershop is a common site for the discussion of community and political affairs, Dr. Cann used Bassett's Bookstore on Manchester Street in Somerset and the Somerset Cricket Club as his headquarters.

" Weekly, he could be found there conducting informal political surgeries.'' Was Dr. Cann your mentor? If so how did he help you and what was the most important thing he taught you? "At the time of our first meeting he was negotiating with the white oligarchy over the opening up of the franchise and the integration of hotels, restaurants, and theatres. We talked for hours at his home and office of the problems black Bermudians faced at the time.

"I became his political sounding board and he became my political mentor. He used me to find out the aspirations of young black people, and I used him for his knowledge of the history and makeup of the then Bermuda.'' What did you admire the most about Dr. Cann? "I admired the fact that he would be receptive to new ideas and demands of his community and would fight to the utmost to promote those ideals. He was a fighter who once he established a position would not back down to the white power structure.'' What were the key elements which made Dr. Cann so distinguished? "He was a sensitive, compassionate, and talented doctor whose patients understood his commitments to politics and his community.'' How do you think he would like to be remembered? "I am sure he would like to be remembered for his strength of ideas and how he was able to help change the conditions of Bermuda for the black community.'' The late Dr. Eustace A. Cann: A distinguished member of Bermuda's medical profession who enjoyed a political profession for a decade. He was called, "Bermuda's Statesman''.