“The first thing to say is that my thoughts – and I am sure that would be the sentiment of many – are with Gary’s husband and family at what is undoubtedly a very sad time,” said Deputy Ferbrache.
“Gary was an outstanding journalist. He had all the qualities of an outstanding journalist.
“He was always well researched. He asked difficult questions when they should have been asked. He was not sensationalist. He always had empathy. He was succinct and to the point. He had his finger on the pulse of what was in the interests of the community he served so well.
“I could carry on for a long time listing his considerable qualities but they are so well known that there probably is no need.
“His courage, though, must be mentioned. When the seriousness of his illness was realised, he carried on working with great skill and made little of his illness.
“He was, in our jurisdiction, an iconic journalist and will be very much missed.”
Pictured: Tributes were paid to broadcaster and journalist Gary Burgess from across the media, politics and other walks of life after he died in the Jersey Hospice on New Year’s Day.
In Jersey, Senator Lyndon Farnham, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, wrote on Twitter: “So very sad to learn of the passing of Gary Burgess.
“Gary was a formidable journalist who inspired so many of us with his zest for life, his care for others and ultimately his courage.
“He was truly unique and will be sorely missed. My heartfelt condolences to Gary’s family.”