Dec 24 - Governor’s Christmas Message to Reflect on Challenging Year and UK Government’s Unwavering Support
In his first Christmas message, His Excellency the Governor, Lieutenant-General Sir James Dutton, will reflect on his arrival on the Rock, on a year which has been both exciting and challenging for Gibraltar and also look forward to the coming year.
Given the close and historic ties between the Royal Marines and Gibraltar, the Governor’s appointment as a former Royal Marine is particularly timely, as next year will see the 350th anniversary of the formation in 1664 of the Admiral’s Regiment, later the Royal Marines, as well as the 310th anniversary of the capture of Gibraltar by British and Dutch marines in 1704.
Although 2013 has been a challenging year for Gibraltar, with a significant increase of incursions into British Gibraltar Territorial Waters and unacceptably long delays at the border, this year has shown that the British Government’s support for Gibraltar is stronger than ever, culminating in a personal message of support from the Prime Minister on National Day.
This year has also been one of celebration and achievement. Gibraltar joined UEFA and a hosted a diverse range of sporting and cultural events. Testament to the enormous amount of charitable and civil society work in the community, Gibraltar was awarded the largest number of State honours in the overseas territories and awarded, for the first time outside the UK, four Merchant Navy Medals.
In line with his predecessors, the Governor will pay tribute to those in the armed forces and uniformed organisations who are defending our sovereignty at home and overseas, as well as those who will be working over the Christmas season to ensure a peaceful and safe holiday for all.
Finally, the Governor will convey a message from Her Majesty the Queen, conveying Her support for the people of Gibraltar as well as Her continuing best wishes.
The Christmas message will be broadcast on GBC tomorrow evening at 9pm.
