HEAD OF THE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE DEPARTS

Head of the Governor’s Office, Louise MacMorran , departed the Governor’s Office in mid-June following the conclusion of her posting to St Helena. Louise’s key achievement during her time on the Island has been securing over £1m of Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) funding for use on key projects on St Helena including as part of the Conflict, Stability, and Security Fund (CSSF programme). She has also played a crucial role in work to secure the future of the fishing industry on St Helena and has obtained resources to help St Helena Government’s (SHG) immigration team to prepare for the new challenges that come with an airport and easier access to the Island. Most recently, she has been working with Councillors to consider governance reforms to help SHG be best prepared to deliver its future vision.

On her departure, Louise said:

“I am incredibly sad to be leaving St Helena which is a wonderful place full of some really friendly and hard-working people. I am sure though that I will be back in the future. I would just like to pay tribute to the hard work and dedication of the teams at St Helena Government and its entities, and to the staff of the Governor’s Office. I feel a huge amount of progress has been made by the Island since I stepped off the RMS in 2017 and, despite some real challenges, I do see a bright future for the Island.

 “Economic development is happening, if slower than we might like, and it will drive greater prosperity for everyone on St Helena. I would encourage the people of St Helena to share your views and your hopes for the future with your government. Even if you may not always feel it is the case, I know officials and Councillors are listening and want to help deliver your vision for the Island, and to make life better for everyone. Most of all I’d like to see from everyone a belief in a bright future and an optimism about getting there, even when times are tough and it feels as if you’ll never make it. During my time on-Island I have witnessed St Helenians achieving incredible things and being hugely resourceful. I know you have the spirit and determination to get to where you want to be, if you have the belief. I know you can make the rest of the world believe too.

 “I would also like to thank all those on Ascension and Tristan da Cunha who are tackling different and complex challenges. I know you too are doing your best to make things better. Whilst I sadly didn’t get to visit Tristan I was privileged to act as Administrator for three months on Ascension. During this time I saw the hard work going into steering Ascension through a trying period with reduced access due to the damaged runway, so I know how crucial it is that the community works together to support each other through. I wish all three islands the best of luck for the future.”

The role of Head of the Governor’s Office is being covered by FCO Diplomatic Officer, Andrew Sigley, until 6 July. Louise’s substantive successor Greg Gibson will arrive in early August.

 #StHelena #Farewell 

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SHG

19 June 2019

St Helena Government Communications Hub

Telephone: 22470
Email: kimberley.peters@sainthelena.gov.sh