He was born in Grand Bay, Dominica. A member of the Dominica Labor Party, he served in several cabinet posts including communication and works. While serving as foreign minister in the government of Rosie Douglas, he was officially named prime minister on October 3, 2000, two days after Douglas's death.
He became ill in February 2003, and had angioplasty surgery. Concerns about his health led to calls for him to step down. However, he continued to be prime minister of Dominica until his death, which occurred during a medical leave of absence. Osborne Riviere, who had been acting prime minister during his leave, became prime minister in his stead.