Ascension : Andrew Wells Sworn in as Acting Governor
Submitted by The Islander (Public Relations Information Office) 29.01.2009 (Article Archived on 12.02.2009)

For the first time, Andrew Wells was, on 21 January 2009, sworn in as Acting Governor and Commander in Chief of St Helena and its Dependencies.

For the first time, Andrew Wells was, on 21 January 2009, sworn in as Acting Governor and Commander in Chief of St Helena and its Dependencies.

The swearing in ceremony took place in the Governor’s Office at the Castle, in the presence of various invited guests. These included the Honourable Speaker, Honourable Members of the Executive and Legislative Councils, Heads of Department and other distinguished guests.

The ceremony commenced with the administration of the Oaths of Office by the Sheriff, Mrs Pat Musk MBE and following this, a blessing was given by Bishop John.

In his address, the Acting Governor said that it was a tremendous honour to have been appointed Acting Governor. He thanked everyone for their trust in him, and added that he would strive to repay that trust.

The Acting Governor also took the opportunity to thank everyone for their unfailing warmth and courtesy which has been bestowed upon him and his family since their arrival on St Helena. He said that he would work closely with the people of the Island and added that, while these are trying times for St Helena in so many ways, Honourable Members and public servants would work together to get things done.

In addition to thanking all public servants in the St Helena Government, the Acting Governor made special mention of Ethel Yon and her staff in the Office of the Chief Secretary. He also thanked Bishop John for his prayers, as well as his wife Shanling and daughter Elizabeth.

Following the address, invited guests took the opportunity to congratulate the Acting Governor and his family. Congratulations to the Acting Governor from his daughter Elizabeth came in the form of a warm hug.

The appointment of Acting Governor has been made because Governor Andrew Gurr is currently away from the Island attending meetings in London.

Ethel Yon, OBE has been appointed Acting Chief Secretary and Gillian Francis has been appointed Acting Deputy Chief Secretary. These appointments will run until 1 March 2009 when Governor Gurr returns to Ascension Island.

Public Relations/Information Office
Office of the Chief Secretary
22 January 2009