??
Prime Minister Freundel Stuart (left) recommends Acting Governor General Elliott Belgrave (right)??to be confirmed in the post.?? (FP)

I rise to inform this Honourable Chamber and the country of the decision made in respect of the office of Governor- General of Barbados. The sixth holder of that office, Sir Clifford Husbands retired effective November 1, 2011 after fifteen years’ service as our Head of State.

Mr. Speaker, the selection of a Governor-General is never an easy task. The selection process must be guided by a range of factors, among them being personal and professional attributes, record of service, commitment to country, integrity and dignity. Let me say that there are many Barbadians at home and in the diaspora that could qualify.

The announcement of the appointment had to be delayed as a result of receipt of information from the Palace in respect of The Royal Visit which took place in February, and other activities to take place in Barbados to commemorate Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee.

I am therefore pleased Mr. Speaker, to announce that Her Majesty the Queen, on the recommendation of Her Majesty’s Ministers in Barbados has been graciously pleased to approve the appointment of the Honourable Elliott Fitzroy Belgrave as Governor-General of Barbados with effect from??June 1, 2012.

In keeping with tradition, Her Majesty the Queen has agreed to confer on the Honourable Elliott Fitzroy Belgrave the honour and dignity of Knight Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and St. George (GCMG). The Honourable Elliott Fitzroy Belgrave, on assumption of the office of Governor-General, will, under the Order of the Knight of??St. Andrew become the Chancellor and Principal Knight of St. Andrew.

Mr. Speaker, the installation ceremony for the Honourable Elliott Belgrave will take place on Friday June 1, 2012 in the Senate Chambers.

I will shortly be recommending to Her Majesty The Queen, a person to act as Governor-General so that the Governor-General designate can make the necessary preparations for the installation.

I thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Pin It on Pinterest