His Excellency the Governor’s Christmas Message
As for the present, we adults here in Gibraltar have to grapple with challenges probably not seen since the evacuation of Gibraltar at the start of the Second World War. And my goodness I wish to applaud those people who are addressing these challenges head on.
I have spoken before of our Emergency and Armed Services. My admiration for them during the Pandemic has been and remains immense. But there are others, charities that some may not have heard of, which have not only survived this traumatic time but have adapted so that they can continue to assist those less fortunate.
One visit that moved me greatly was to a very small charity - The Gibraltar Society for the Visually Impaired. Being in lockdown at home for long periods, or self-isolation, has been hard enough for all of us. But consider for a moment someone who has no sight or who is only partially sighted. They could not even enjoy a view out of a window, and might have suffered a degree of loneliness that many of us might not even start to comprehend.
During my visit, I learnt how the charity changed its approach dramatically during the height of the Pandemic, using technology to keep in touch with those visually impaired, ensuring that they knew that they were not alone or isolated.
Gibraltar is a community that cares. A community that is kind to others and has a deep and heartfelt respect for its land and its people.
I shall never forget walking down Main Street and being in Catalan Bay on National Day this year, and becoming overwhelmed by the pride that each Gibraltarian has in this place, underpinned by a deep sense of family, of social awareness and simply looking out for one another.
Hardship often brings out the best in a community, as Gibraltarians have recognised many times over the centuries. And while there are a range of difficulties facing us, I am sure that we as a community can look forward with confidence, sure in the knowledge that those in governance over us are sparing no effort to make Gibraltar the best possible place for everyone. The Emergency Services, steadfast in protecting our safety and security. Staff in our hospital and our Elderly Residential Services homes, who ensure our health and wellbeing. And those in so many charities, including Calpe House in London which I had the privilege to visit only a few weeks ago, are providing that additional kindness and love which is at the heart of the Christmas message.
Finally, we are safe in the knowledge that our teachers are following in the footsteps of one who, as the bible says, brought light to the world.
We can be grateful to everyone who is ensuring, day by day, that our young will flourish in an often imperfect and very difficult world.
I will be remembering all those who will be working over the Christmas period, to ensure that we have the chance to celebrate this wonderful time of year, with our families and friends.
May I wish everyone in Gibraltar a very happy Christmas, and my heartfelt good wishes for the year ahead.
Search Panorama
Headlines
- Melilla out to pinch Gibraltar business?
- Government Offer to Transfer Motor Insurance Liabilities to Channel Islands Rejected
- Wear a Hat Day 2024
- Threat Level for Gibraltar assessed at MODERATE
- Beach Facilities available at Camp Bay during Easter and weekends in the lead up to the Bathing Season
- Weather Advisory for Gale Force Winds
- Saturday’s Ceremonial Guard
- Expulsion of U.K. military from Spain raises serious issues