Bailiff Reflects On 'Eventful' Year In Christmas Message

Jersey's Bailiff, Sir Tim Le Cocq, reflects on the events of 2022 in his annual Christmas message.

Sir Tim began by touching on the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

"We have been reminded, perhaps, that the freedoms that we enjoy and may take for granted, and indeed life itself, are rather more fragile than we might have assumed."

The Bailiff at a vigil in Jersey's Royal Square in March, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

He also mentioned the cost of living crisis which has seen raising interest rates and inflation at a 32 year high.

Sir Tim also reflected on the happier times in summer with the royal visit from the Earl and Countess of Wessex for Liberation Day and The Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

"We were afforded one last opportunity to pass our own appreciation back to Her Majesty in the Loyal Address that we gave on that day in anticipation of her Platinum Jubilee.

The celebration of the Platinum Jubilee in June was a wonderful Island event and showed, once again, how we can come together in joy and celebrate who we are as a community and a people."

June's general election was also a talking point in the seasonal message.

"We have had of course, in that period, an Island Election, and a new Government and States Assembly who are seeking to tackle, with enthusiasm and energy, the challenges that we face as a community.

But no sooner had the new government and assembly been established than we faced, with deep sadness, the loss of our Sovereign whose long reign we had celebrated shortly before."

 The Bailiff presided over the new States Assembly following the Queen's death.  The Royal Mace was cloaked in black.

Sir Tim also spoke about how the island has united in times of grief.

"We have come together to mourn and to stand in solidarity with those who have lost loved ones in the two tragedies that struck the community earlier in this month.

We offered what we can in support and will continue to do so. And once again, although born out of sorrow and sadness, our community has shown what it really is."

The Bailiff ends his Christmas message for 2022 by saying he is 'intensely proud' of the island and its people.

"Whether you keep Christmas in the traditional way, honouring the Christmas message and celebrating with family and friends, or whether you take it as an opportunity to be still and renewed and to reflect, I wish all of my fellow Islanders a peaceful and joyful Christmas and a happy New Year and a sense of optimism for 2023"