DECEMBER and Christmas is usually a month of optimism and hope but for many families in Jersey, the Philippines and across the world it will not be so, the Chief Minister has said.
Reflecting on the tragic events of the past couple of weeks, Deputy Kristina Moore said everyone would be hugging their loved ones ‘that little bit tighter this week’ while thinking of the families affected by the fishing tragedy and the Pier Road explosion.
‘December is usually a month of optimism and hope. One where we prepare to celebrate the warmth of Christmas with friends and family. This year, in houses across Jersey, the Philippines, and other parts of the world it will not be so,’ she said.
‘Our prayers, thoughts, and best wishes are with the families of those tragically grieving from the incidents in St Ouen’s Bay and at Haut du Mont,’ she added.
Deputy Moore said the Island’s ‘full community spirit’ had been felt in recent days.
‘We know that Islanders are also showing that same spirit to shores afar, with donations pouring into a fundraiser set up by Rebecca Michieli for the families of Larry Simyunn and Jervis Ramirez Baligat who had been working alongside her father Mick on L’Ecume II,’ she said.
‘This weekend, we will all be sparing thoughts and moments for all the families. The lights across the Island are bright, but in our hearts, there is a dullness,’ she added.
Deputy Moore encouraged Islanders to take ‘heart in the pride’ for Jersey’s emergency services, healthcare specialists and other front line workers.
‘We will all be hugging our loved ones that little bit tighter this week, and when we do, we will all be thinking of the families; near and far,’ she said.
