08 January 2015
Following the atrocities in Paris yesterday when a group of terrorists killed 12 people, the Bailiff, Sir Michael Birt, and the Chief Minister, Senator Ian Gorst, have sent messages of condolence to the President of the French Republic, François Hollande, on behalf of the people and government of Jersey.
The Bailiff has also directed that all flags should be flown at half-mast for three days from today. This arrangement mirrors that being followed in France.
Sir Michael and Senator Gorst will attend a candle light vigil in the Royal Square this evening at 6 pm where both they and the French Honorary Consul, David Myatt, will speak.
The Bailiff has arranged for a Book of Condolence to be opened. This is available to anyone who wishes to sign it. It is located in the States Building/Royal Court House main entrance, Royal Square.
Monsignor Nicholas France, the Roman Catholic Dean, will lead a multi-faith service tomorrow, Friday 9 January 2015, at St Thomas’ Church at noon. This will be attended by senior Island officials, including His Excellency the Lieutenant-Governor, the Bailiff, the Chief Minister and the Honorary French Consul. The public and media are warmly invited to attend.
Sir Michael said "I am sure that people in Jersey will be deeply shocked at the turn of events in Paris yesterday and I have written to the President of France, on behalf of the community, to express our sympathy and sadness at the extent of the loss of life.
"Our immediate thoughts, in particular, lie with the families of those affected by this tragedy, the courageous and dedicated efforts of the emergency services and police authorities who have had to deal with these terrible circumstances so bravely, and the people of France who are, of course, our very close neighbours."
Senator Gorst said "France is highly respected for its intellectual freedom and this attack on liberty of thought and expression is an attack on democratic values everywhere. As a very close neighbour to France we, in Jersey, feel a keen sense of outrage and sadness at these events."
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