HM Government of Gibraltar has thanked public servants across Gibraltar for the professionalism, commitment and sense of national purpose they have demonstrated throughout the preparation for the signature and implementation of the Treaty on Gibraltar’s future relationship with the European Union.

The signature of the Treaty, its implementation and the removal of immigration controls at the land frontier represent a profound change in Gibraltar’s daily life and a defining moment in its modern history.

Behind these historic events has been an immense collective effort across the entire public sector. Departments, authorities and agencies throughout the Public Service have worked intensively to prepare new systems, adapt established procedures, deliver complex infrastructure, coordinate across organisations and ensure that Gibraltar was ready for change from the first day of implementation.

Much of that work has taken place behind the scenes and away from public view. It has required long hours, flexibility and sensitivity in evolving circumstances. The Government recognises that many public servants have assumed additional responsibilities while continuing to provide the essential services upon which the community depends.

The first days of any transformation of this scale will inevitably bring practical challenges. Procedures will need to be refined, systems adjusted and unfamiliar arrangements allowed to settle. Public servants are therefore encouraged to continue approaching implementation with patience, professionalism and a determination to find solutions.

At the same time, this historic progress must not be distracted or derailed by those who may seek to turn every initial difficulty into a source of division or confrontation. The best response will be the same disciplined and responsible approach that has brought Gibraltar to this moment: to remain calm, stay focused on the task and continue delivering for the public.

The Chief Minister, the Hon Fabian Picardo KC MP, said:

"The Treaty bears the signatures of the United Kingdom and the European Union, but its successful delivery in Gibraltar carries the imprint of thousands of public servants.

"Across the public sector, people have understood the scale of this moment and risen magnificently to meet it. They have worked late, taken on unfamiliar responsibilities, solved problems under pressure and continued serving our community throughout.

"As Chief Minister, I want every person who has contributed to know that their work is seen, valued and deeply appreciated. History will record the great political milestones of these days. We must also remember the people whose professionalism and dedication turned those milestones into a functioning reality.

"Implementation will not be perfect from the first moment. There will be teething issues, and there will undoubtedly be those who seek to exploit them. We must not allow ourselves to be drawn into unnecessary confrontation. Our answer must be calm, and measured in competence, patience and continued delivery.

"This is Gibraltar’s achievement, and the Public Service has been central to it. On behalf of the Government and the people of Gibraltar, thank you."

The Deputy Chief Minister, the Hon Dr Joseph Garcia CMG MP, said:

"The removal of immigration controls at the frontier is a generational turning point in the history of our nation and of our people.

"It impacts all Gibraltar residents; families, workers, businesses and reality of the daily lives of tens of thousands of people on both sides of the border.

"The Public Service has helped to translate years of political and technical negotiation into practical arrangements. That has demanded detailed preparation on multiple and parallel workstreams, close cooperation between agencies and a level of professionalism that has proved that we can hold our own on the international stage.

"There will be lessons to learn as the new arrangements are put into practice. We should approach them constructively, always keeping in mind the magnitude of what has been achieved.

"The work is not over, but everyone involved should take pride in how far Gibraltar has come and in the part they have played in bringing us here."

The Chief Secretary, Mr Glendon Martinez, said:

"I have seen at first hand the extraordinary effort made by colleagues across the Civil Service and the wider public sector. I have worked with you shoulder to shoulder through the long days and long nights leading up to this moment, and I have witnessed your professionalism and commitment throughout.

"Some of you have worked directly on Treaty implementation for many months. Others have supported that work while maintaining the everyday services that our community relies upon. Every contribution has mattered.

"What has impressed me most has been the fraternity and shared sense of purpose. Departments and agencies have worked together, adapted quickly and remained focused on the wider interests of Gibraltar.

"We must now bring that same spirit to the implementation phase. New processes will require adjustment and there will be moments of pressure. I ask colleagues to continue exercising good judgement, treating one another with respect and raising problems through the proper channels so that they can be resolved.

"I am immensely proud of the public service and profoundly grateful to every colleague who has helped Gibraltar meet this historic moment."