FAREWELL FOR BRITISH HIGH COMMISSIONER
RODERICK GEMMELL

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I want to welcome you all here this evening to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  We are here to bid farewell to the High Commissioner to The Bahamas of the United Kingdom and his wife.

It is always a bitter sweet occasion the ceremonies of departure for outgoing diplomats.  There is the happiness of the occasion itself and the anticipation of meeting the incoming diplomat.  There is also the sadness of saying farewell to old friends.

On this occasion, we also know that Mr. Gemmell is the last resident High Commissioner for the United Kingdom to The Bahamas. The poignancy of this particular moment then is one that many of us will remember.  It is a matter of some regret to us, but it is also true to say that the relationship between our two countries will continue to be good in its newest incarnation.

Our Prime Minister has always expressed the concern that the relationship between the two countries has not been as vigorous as it could be given the historical ties and the range of activities on which we used to co-operate.  The decision then occurs within the context of changing realities and currents around the world.  We all live with our choices and we all make those choices in the best interests of our countries.

I know that on a personal level the Gemmells will miss their time in The Bahamas.  It has been a productive time.  They have held up the flag for their country, and leave a legacy of fondness and helpfulness as they take their leave.

I have enjoyed working with them.

Of some note is the fact that during the tenure of this High Commissioner, The Bahamas and the United Kingdom were able to complete the UK/Bahamas Air Services Agreement, which will see significantly increased air lift to The Bahamas from the United Kingdom. We already have First Choice coming out of Manchester.  Beginning in the summer we expect the 747 of Virgin Atlantic to come to The Bahamas for flights between London and Nassau.

The Bahamas and the UK continue in the multilateral context of Caricom to work on security and crime issues that affect the region.

I wish therefore on this occasion to thank you for the contributions made to The Bahamas on behalf of your country during your tenure.

We in The Bahamas wish you every success in your future, personal endeavours.  We look forward to welcoming you and your family back to The Bahamas for a visit.

It is my pleasure now to invite you all to raise your glasses to High Commissioner Gemmell and Mrs. Gemmell and to UK/Bahamas relations.

High Commissioner and Mrs. Gemmell

To UK/Bahamas relations.