Gibraltar’s new mayor, John Goncalves, has said that he wants to reach out to young people and “engage in a meaningful way” with those who, while not originally from Gibraltar, have chosen to make the Rock their home.

Speaking at his investiture this morning in City Hall, he said he felt strongly about this issue at a time when “populism, xenophobia and anti-Semitism are once again rearing their grotesque heads.”

He explained that he wanted to listen to Gibraltar’s youth and make sure they knew about all the opportunities available to them.

Mr Goncalves also paid tribute to his predecessor: “Kaiane is one of the most real, sincere, honest, caring and unassuming people I have ever had the privilege to meet.”

Mr Goncalves, who was born in Funchal, Madeira, noted that he might be the first Mayor who was not born in Gibraltar.

The outgoing Mayor, Kaiane Aldorino Lopez, said that being mayor had been “a huge honour and privilege.”

She said the role had given her “immense satisfaction” and had enabled her to connect with all members of the community.

The Chief Minister Fabian Picardo said that Ms Aldorino Lopez’s time in City Hall had seen the Office of the Mayor being opened up to young people.

“She has done an absolutely magnificent job in the last two years,” he said.

Mr Picardo said that the appointment of Mr Goncalves would mark a “year of sport” in Gibraltar.

He added that he wanted to see mayors “reaching out beyond City Hall.”

Christian Santos was also officially appointed as Deputy Mayor. The Chief Minister said that Mr Santos had “taken the name of Gibraltar beyond our shores.”

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