Today, 23 March 2021 marks exactly one year since the country went into lockdown. This National Day of Reflection we commemorate the tragic loss of life and stand together with those who are grieving the loss of a loved one.

Since the first lockdown began one year ago, over 125,000 people have died. That’s 125,000 lives cut short and millions left grieving.  

Behind the statistics, every death has been devastating for those left behind. Many, including myself, have been unable to properly say goodbye to their loved ones or comfort each other in their grief.

As we reflect on the past year, we owe it to those whose lives have been lost to learn the lessons from the pandemic and to build a more secure future for our country. We need a public inquiry now.

At 12pm today, I will be observing a minute’s silence to remember the loved ones I have lost and all those who have died during this awful year. Later, at 8pm I will be leaving a lit candle on my doorstep in an act of remembrance.

I hope you will join me in commemorating this day.