Video: Governor Rankin Gives Farewell Speech
[Updated] Governor John Rankin recently released a farewell speech as he makes way for the appointment of Rene Lalgie, saying he has been “privileged to serve as Governor of this beautiful island.”
The appointment of Ms Lalgie will mark the first time in Bermuda’s history that we will have a female Governor, and also the first time we will have a black Governor. Ms. Lalgie is scheduled to take up her appointment in December 2020.
A Government spokesperson previously said, “Ms. Rena Lalgie has been appointed Governor of Bermuda in succession to Mr. John Rankin CMG who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Ms. Lalgie will take up her appointment during December 2020.”
On her appointment as Governor to Bermuda, Ms. Lalgie said, “I am immensely proud that I will serve Bermuda as its first female Governor. The island rightly has a reputation as a beautiful place to live and a great environment in which business can flourish.
“It is a first-class legal jurisdiction with some of the highest international standards in combatting financial crime.
“I am conscious that this announcement is being made in challenging times; as Bermuda looks to the future, I will work in earnest with the elected Government, through the exercise of my duties, to support and promote the island’s strengths and resilience.
“My family and I are looking forward to contributing fully to life in Bermuda as we get to know the people and culture.”
Update 4.52pm: A Government spokesperson said, “Governor John Rankin CMG departs the island this evening on the British Airways flight. He will be travelling back to the United Kingdom for the Christmas period before taking up his post as Governor of the British Virgin Islands in January 2021.
“Due to restrictions under the current COVID-19 Public Health Regulations, Governor Rankin’s departure is not able to be marked in the usual way with a Departure Parade on the Cabinet Office grounds.”
Mar sin leat good Govenor.