It was rather sad when local ownership of TGH was lost early this year, but it was comforting to know we were at least keeping our editor, Jeremy. This would ensure continuing the excellent coverage of local news and that local views could still be aired through the opinion page. 

It doesn’t surprise me that “Moderating comments on the Gisborne Herald website will not be possible moving forward”, as this was only possible due to Jeremy’s personal dedication and no doubt a good chunk of his time. 

In many ways, the TGH opinion page was the town’s square where different opinions could be heard and debated - for the most part in a civil manner. So, that will be yet another sad loss. 

I would like to acknowledge Jeremy for the enormous job he did with the opinion pages to make sure a wide range of local opinions were heard. 

He gained my tremendous respect when he published opinions that were in contradiction with the accepted narrative. Instead of shying away from controversy in publishing what was considered “misinformation” by some, he would publish them alongside the rebuttal from the highest experts in the field, leaving the readers to make up their own mind. 

His motto was “free speech provides the antidote to misinformation”. For that, we are all richer in our understanding of many issues. 

On a personal level, I have found my exchanges with Jeremy to be positive, where he often challenged me to think and write more clearly. For that I am immensely grateful; not to mention for his correction of my many mistakes over the years! 

Jeremy conducted his editorial managing job with much integrity and decency and dedication to true journalism. I, for one, will be missing his calm, reassuring, happy and open presence. He has left big shoes for the next editor to fill. 

Jeremy, I wish you a sunny journey forward and I hope you always keep uplifting people with your infectious smile and reassuring presence. God bless you and I hope to see you around. With much love, respect and gratitude. 

Simin Williams