Ian McGrail thanks supporters during 'difficult years' as Inquiry report is delivered to Government

Ian McGrail has thanked his family and friends and all those who supported him through, what he terms, these difficult years. 

He thanks his solicitors Charles Gomez & Co and his counsel Adam Wagner KC as well as the Chairman and the Inquiry team for the diligence and care with which, he says, they discharged their solemn responsibilities. 

The former Commissioner gives a mention to the independent media describing their coverage of the public hearings as excellent. 

In a statement, Mr McGrail says he ended his distinguished service following a career defined by loyalty to the people of Gibraltar and to the Oath he swore to the Queen, to uphold the law without fear or favour.

He recalls it was he who, following certain comments made under the protection of parliamentary privilege by the Chief Minister, demanded a Public Inquiry be convened into the circumstances of his departure. Throughout which, he adds, his only wish was that the truth be laid bare before the people of Gibraltar.

The statement goes on to say that over the past five and a half years, Mr McGrail has endured a sustained campaign of disparagement and reputational injury, orchestrated and encouraged by the Chief Minister and others.

Despite this unrelenting ordeal, Mr McGrail remained steadfast in his dedication to justice, his faith in Gibraltar’s constitutional institutions and unerring loyalty to its citizens.

Mr McGrail looks forward to reading the Report in full and says he'll accept with humility any fair criticism that may be levelled against him.  

He therefore calls on the Government to publish the report in its entirety and without delay or prevarication, save only for any redactions recommended by the Inquiry Chairman.