Uist pays its last respects
The Union Flag at the Comhairle offices in Balivanich, along with official flags across the Western Isles, was lowered to half-mast at 9am on Friday 9th September, as a mark of respect to Her Majesty the Queen. The Flag was raised again on Saturday morning for the proclamation of Charles III where it stayed until 1pm on the Sunday, before being lowered again for the duration of the official period of mourning.
A book of condolences was made available in the Comhairle offices and an area around the official flag pole was set aside for those members of the public wishing to lay flowers.
A statement was issued by Lord Lieutenant of the Western Isles, Iain Macaulay: “HM The Queen has been a symbol of stability for the past 70 years as monarch, providing an outstanding example of service, dedication and Christian faith. During this extraordinary long reign, the world has seen many changes and her passing will have a significant impact in the UK, across the Commonwealth and throughout the world. In this period of mourning and reflection, we acknowledge the strong and close connection between The Queen and her people. Communities across the Western Isles fondly remember with great pride The Queen’s visits to these islands in 1956, 1979 and 2002. We look back with gratitude and great respect for the Queen’s wonderful achievements in her long reign and offer our support and loyalty to King Charles III. Gad chuimhneachadh.”
The official proclamation of King Charles III was read for the Western Isles at the Comhairle’s Chamber Stornoway, at 9 am on Monday 12th September.
Schools, offices and shops were closed on Monday 19th as a mark of respect, and Uist took time out to reflect on the Queen’s long and dedicated service, and mark the historic occasion of her funeral.
Comhairle Leader Cllr Paul F. Steele attended the special service of commemoration in St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh, on Monday 12th September. Paul spoke to Am Pàipear about his experience:
“It was an honour to be asked to attend the Service at St Giles Cathedral on behalf of the Comhairle and to represent the people of the Western Isles. It was a poignant service that allowed representatives from across the breadth of public life in Scotland to give thanks to Her Majesty.
“With the Queen’s remains so close by, and the King and members of the Royal family, the Prime Minister and First Minister in attendance, the service really did feel like history in action.
“The beautifully moving rendition of Psalm 118, sung in in Gaelic by Karen Matheson was a particular highlight.”
“I also attended the Motion of Condolence at the Palace of Holyrood, followed by a reception with King Charles III, where
I spoke briefly with the Queen Consort about Islanders’ respect and admiration for the late Queen.”
“It was a memorable day and a privilege to have been a part of it.”
Fergus Granville and his brother, Niall Leveson Gower, representing their family and Uist, attended the Committal Service which took place in St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, following the State Funeral of Her Majesty at Westminster Abbey on Monday 19th September 2022. Mr Granville recalled how much the Queen loved the islands and looked forward to visiting annually on Britannia: “How smiley and friendly she seemed to me, especially as a boy, and how well and naturally she put you at ease.”
