Tribute has been paid to the Bailiff as he presided over the States Assembly for the final time ahead of his retirement later this month.
Before Members adjourned following the completion of this week’s business, Privileges and Procedures Committee chair Deputy Steve Ahier rose to thank Sir Timothy Le Cocq for his contribution to the Assembly and more widely in island life.
Deputy Ahier said that Sir Timothy had been part of the Assembly since being appointed as Solicitor General in 2008, subsequently serving as Attorney General and Deputy Bailiff before becoming Bailiff in 2019. His time in the chair presiding over States’ business added up to 1,300 hours, the equivalent of 54 days.
Sir Timothy, who will celebrate his 69th birthday later in the year, will officially retire on 19 October.
“No-one could have foreseen what would happen after you took up the role in October 2019,” Deputy Ahier said.
“The impact of the covid pandemic forced the Assembly to adapt, firstly moving location and then going online, becoming the first parliament in the Commonwealth to do this.
“You have approached your responsibilities in this Chamber with good humour, responsibility and diligence.”
Deputy Ahier also referred to the Bailiff’s role in community events, notably the successful visit – in spite of the wet weather – of the visit by King Charles III and Queen Camilla in 2024.
“On behalf of the Assembly, may I express Members’ thanks for all you have done both here and for the island as a whole, and wish you the very best for the future,” he said.
Following a prolonged bout of foot-stomping – the traditional means of applause in the Chamber – Sir Timothy thanked Deputy Ahier for his words.
“It’s strange to be sitting here for the last time,” he admitted. “It’s been an enormous source of pride for me, a great privilege and a genuine pleasure to have presided over this Assembly – it’s a remarkable place.”
While admitting that his time in the Assembly encompassed a range of experiences, some of which he described as “desultory”, Sir Timothy said the Chamber was at its best when everyone worked together, showed kindness and debated issues, not individuals.
“That’s the Assembly I remember and will carry with me as I leave it for the last time – I shall miss it,” he concluded, triggering a second lengthy bout of approbation.
READ MORE…
Sir Timothy was a Connect cover star last year – read his full interview here…