Chief Islander's address in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II
Address by Chief Islander James Glass"Tonight's service, for the whole community, is taking place in St Joseph's Catholic Church. A further service is planned at St Mary's for the day of the state funeral. I know everyone here will join me in expressing the sadness of our whole community at the death of Her Majesty. Tristan da Cunha was the remotest inhabited part of her realm, but we proudly fly the Union Flag and Queen Elizabeth’s portrait in our Council Chamber inspired all our deliberations, reminding us of a life devoted to public service. Growing up as a boy, I can recall the esteem in which she was held, and the love and affection shown to Her Majesty by the islanders. In many houses of the older generation, you would often see a portrait of the Queen hanging on the wall. In 1962, after the volcano led to the temporary evacuation of our island, Her Majesty graciously welcomed Tristanian refugees to Buckingham Palace. Her kindness will never be forgotten here. It gives us great comfort to know that she is now at peace with her beloved husband, the late Duke of Edinburgh - who visited here in 1957 and who was such a staunch supporter of our island. We join together today in sending our deepest condolences, across many miles of ocean, to the Royal Family. May she rest in peace. God Save The King." |