St Helena : St Helena - Andrew Wells Sworn in as Acting Governor
Submitted by Saint Helena Herald (Juanita Brock) 22.07.2009 (Article Archived on 05.08.2009)
Chief Secretary Andrew Wells was sworn in as Acting Governor for St Helena and its Dependencies. This is the second time Mr Wells has served as Acting Governor since his arrival in late 2008.
Andrew Wells Sworn in as Acting Governor
The Hon Andrew Wells signing his oath with Sheriff Pat Musk
Yesterday, 15 July 2009, Chief Secretary Andrew Wells was sworn in as Acting Governor for St Helena and its Dependencies. This is the second time Mr Wells has served as Acting Governor since his arrival in late 2008.
The ceremony was held in the Governor’s Office in the presence of various officials and other invited guests including Councillors and Heads of Department.
The Oaths of Office were administered by the Sheriff, Pat Musk MBE. Following this, the Sheriff called on the Vicar General, Dale Bowers for prayers and a blessing.
Speaking to invited guests, Acting Governor Wells placed strong emphasis on teamwork to get things done. To this end, the Acting Governor said that Councillors and the public service would continue to work together in the best interests of the Island.
The Acting Governor identified air access as a priority and shared his confidence that the work Governor Gurr is doing in London towards achieving air access, along with the work of Councillors, would bear good fruit.
Acting Governor Wells identified the reform and modernisation process within SHG as another priority and added that by this time next year, St Helena should have a fairer, better system for recruiting, assessing and promoting staff. The Acting Governor said that the changes should make young Saints more enthusiastic about working in the public service.
Nearing the end of his address, the Acting Governor made special mention of the “A Team” which he said comprised colleagues at all levels in the service. His Excellency said that these people work long and hard and are true servants of the public. Acting Governor Wells identified Gillian Francis, Acting Chief Secretary, as an excellent example of a dependable professional who is a credit to the service and an asset to the Island.
The Acting Governor gave special thanks to his wife Shanling and his daughter Elizabeth and concluded by saying that they are happy and proud to be on St Helena.
While Andrew Wells is Acting Governor, Gillian Francis will serve as Acting Chief Secretary and Bobby Essex and Sandra Sim will share the duties of Deputy Chief Secretary.
Public Relations/Information Office
Office of the Chief Secretary
16 July 2009
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