Kingston, July 31 – The Honourable Olivia Grange, Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, has said “a cloud of sorrow has settled over the music fraternity and those in health care, in particular, with the sudden passing today of Irvin 'Carrot' Jarrett, former member of Third World Band and latterly a Naturopathic Health Practitioner.”

Minister Grange said that shortly after she was informed of Jarrett’s death, she spoke with his wife, Alicia, who said she wanted everyone to know he “was at peace”.

 Minister Grange said that Jarett, who was regarded as one of the world’s foremost percussionists and performers, and who had charted courses in Integrative Health Healing and Wellness for the past two decades, would leave a void difficult to fill.

“This is so because wrapped in 'Carrot' was a percussionist, singer, drummer, dancer, performer, concert producer, inventor, songwriter, painter and teacher. 

 “Carrot was just so talented, knowledgeable and helpful to scores of people. I was a faithful member of his radio audience on a Thursday night and would look forward to the advice that he and his dear Alicia shared with the public."

Minister Grange recalled that he was one of the original members of Third World, assisting the Band to establish itself and staying with it for 16 years until his departure in 1989.

“Carrot’s talent no doubt contributed to Third World becoming what has been described as more than just one of the top Reggae bands of all time but an institution that held firm to the cultural and ancestral roots of its members while pushing forward the cutting edge of music worldwide. An institution whose themes are positive, progressive and internationally relevant. 

“Irvin 'Carrot' once said ‘I would like to be known as a positive potent power to those whose lives I’ve touched, while leaving a worthwhile legacy that will triumph over the rigours of space and time.’”

“I express my deepest sympathy to Carrot’s family, his relatives, his friends, his associates, the music fraternity and the health care fraternity. May his soul find rest Eternally.  

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