Vice Admiral Sir Ian Corder KBE, CB, paid tribute to Alderney’s ‘resilience and resourcefulness’ when he made a farewell speech as departing Lieutenant-Governor at the States meeting on October 20th.
Attending with Lady Corder, he told the chamber: “Alderney is a special place and we leave with fond memories. I have enormous affection for these islands. We are hugely fortunate to have been widely welcomed in the Bailiwick and that is as true of Alderney as anywhere else. Engaging with Alderney has been very special.”
He spoke of Alderney’s remarkable natural beauty, the closeness of its community and its unique and moving wartime history commemorated in the annual Homecoming Day. He added: “You have a determination to enjoy yourselves and each other’s company irrespective of any niggling disputes there may be.”
He paid tribute to Alderney’s resilience in avoiding the ravages of the pandemic for many months and acknowledged the sadness of losing loved ones who died with Covid-19 recently. “It has been genuinely impressive to witness how this community has come together in its response to the pandemic with the strong leadership of the President, the elected Members, the officials and the Island’s health professionals,” he said.
“It has also been pleasing to see the way in which the pandemic has brought about a change in the atmospherics between Alderney and Guernsey for the better.” But he warned of fiscal challenges ahead. “It is pleasing that the islands have done so well in an abnormal 18 months but we now face significant challenges in respect of tax structures and it is important we do not allow these to fracture the Bailiwick.
“Your sense of resilience and resourcefulness is tangible and the broader Channel Islands community is rooting for Alderney. You also genuinely have friends in Whitehall. The relationship between the Crown and the Bailiwick is extraordinarily precious and has stood the test of time. Rest assured, Her Majesty knows all about the Bailiwick of Guernsey and the Island of Alderney.”
President William Tate and his wife Gabrielle hosted a Vin d’Honneur in tribute to Sir Ian and Lady Corder following the States meeting. Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell steps into the role of Lieutenant-Governor when Sir Ian departs next month after more than five years in the post.
The main photo shows Sir Ian (left) presenting a certificate of appreciation to Mr Geoffrey Workman in recognition of his service in representing him at the States of Alderney. States’ President William Tate looks on. [photo by David Nash]
