Tasmania has lost a great public figure and statesman with the passing of his Excellency the Governor, the Honourable Peter Underwood AC, Greens Leader Kim Booth MP said today.
“Governor Peter Underwood will be remembered for his sharp mind, quirky sense of humour, strong social conscience, and dedication to furthering the community’s understanding of our great democracy,” Mr Booth said.
“In 2010 when the people returned a balance of power parliament, many eyes were turned to, and huge pressure placed upon Governor Underwood, but his calm approach and assessment of people’s roles and responsibilities during that period never wavered.”
“Similarly, Mr Underwood’s heartfelt, brave and profound Anzac Day speech this year will be remembered by history as truly timely and one which will stand the test of time. Through it shone his strong sense of integrity and social purpose, urging the community to think about the world they want and their place in it.”
“Once sworn in as Tasmania’s Governor in 2008, Mr Underwood rapidly earned the respect and affection of many Tasmanians from all walks of life. There can be no higher testament to a contribution made in public life than that.”
“His wicked and quirky sense of humour immediately put people to ease in the most formal of situations, and there will be a genuine sense of loss felt by many across our community today.”
“As a gentle statesman, Governor Peter Underwood has left an extraordinary, and humane legacy for this State.”
“On behalf of the Tasmanian Greens and my parliamentary colleagues Nick McKim MP and Cassy O’Connor MP I express our deep sorrow, and extend our sympathies, to Mr Underwood’s family and friends,” Mr Booth said.