In his traditional Liberation Day address, the Bailiff Timothy Le Cocq added that although the effects of today’s crisis could not be compared to the difficulties faced by those who lived under German rule, the public should be proud of what has been achieved so far during the coronavirus outbreak.
On Saturday, he spoke from the same balcony where the-then Bailiff Alexander Coutanche addressed Islanders 75 years ago to announce Jersey had been liberated and he also paid special tribute to healthcare workers, those within the emergency services, care homes and other essential personnel.
‘During the Occupation, there was endurance and community spirit. Some took risks and paid the price to protect and shelter others. We have all heard the stories that can make us proud of what was done by many during those years – the spontaneous acts of kindness, of bravery, of resistance. Our people showed themselves to be tough and resilient. These things are part of the Jersey spirit,’ he said.
‘And we are showing these qualities and that spirit today, in the dedication and selflessness of our healthcare workers, in those who work in our care homes, in our emergency services. It is found in those who work to maintain the infrastructure, and essential supplies on which the rest of us depend.
‘We see it in those who have responded to the current challenges by volunteering. It has shown itself in the ceaseless efforts of those in government and the civil service who are working long hours to grapple with the challenges we face. It is shown in the work and dedication of our States Members in responding to this crisis.’
