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Bryce should meet the people

Posted on August 21, 2009, 8:08am

The Governor General, Quentin Bryce, makes a welcome visit to Mount Gambier tomorrow.

As the Queen’s representative, the Governor General is a symbol of national unity.

Forget the republic debate for a moment and consider that the power of the people is invested in the Crown.

Both Her Majesty and the Governor General take their constitutional responsibilities seriously and deserve respect.

They have shown themselves to be selfless and committed to public service.

A vice-regal visit by a Governor General doesn’t happen very often; tomorrow is the first to Mount Gambier since November 2001.

Organisers of the Rural Women’s Gathering are to be commended for successfully inviting the Governor General to attend their event.

Ms Bryce will also visit the Ryder Cheshire Home.

It’s disappointing, however, that no opportunity exists for members of the public to meet Her Excellency.

Normally, a civic reception is held to honour vice-regal visitors and citizens have a chance to at least see the distinguished guest.

Security concerns have been cited as a possible reason for that not being the case in Mount Gambier tomorrow.

But that doesn’t make sense.

Princess Anne visited Australia earlier this year and managed to meet bushfire victims and tour a hospital.

It’s a sad day indeed when a national leader cannot be seen in public because of fears for his or her safety.

The day that happens the terrorists have won.

For the office of Governor General to remain relevant it’s important the incumbent makes every effort to be visible and accessible.

MICHAEL GOREY

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