Prime Minister Bruce Golding yesterday expressed regret at the passing of the former custos of Trelawny, Royland Barrett.

The 71-year-old custos of Trelawny died on Friday from renal failure.

"It is with deep regret that I note the passing of the Custos of Trelawny, the Honourable Royland Barrett, who made his transition on Friday," Prime Minister Golding said in a statement from Jamaica House on Sunday.

The prime minister described Barrett as "truly an exemplar of honour in public service and a son of the soil, who for 20 years represented the historic parish of Trelawny with pride and who promoted it with passion."

Golding said the people of Trelawny knew that in him, they had an outstanding representative who set a standard of dignity and congeniality.

"Custos Barrett was aware of the importance of history and was the chairman of the Falmouth Restoration Company. Our appreciation of his contribution to Trelawny, and to our nation, is partly due to his untiring work in this area," the prime minister said.

The People's National Party has also eulogised Barrett as a great son of the soil.

"Prior to becoming custos of Trelawny, Royland served as a Councillor for the Falmouth division for many years and was a stalwart for the party in the parish of Trelawny. His tenure as custos will be remembered for the emphasis he placed on promoting volunteerism and his wholehearted devotion to the development and growth of Trelawny as a parish," chairman of the Opposition People's National Party, Robert Pickersgill, said.

Barrett is survived by his widow Audrey, children, other family members and friends.