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I wanted to record my memories of your dad from the early days I met him in Colombo back in 1991. I loved spending time at the HHR office, with him, Mr Ganeshalingam and later on Mr Raviraj. There was a real buzz about the place, very much inspired by your father's energy. I was always so impressed with their ability to lay their hands on a file, any time I asked about a PTA detainee or another case. The place was obviously really well organised; and everyone was working extremely hard.
Mr Xavier probably thought of me as an ignorant foreigner (which of course I was), but if he did, he never showed it. He always smiled his little smile, and giggled; then rushed off to the court or wherever he had to be.
Occassionally he visited our office in London, always focused on his "mission". And then of course he used to go to Geneva, and try to influence matters before the then Commission on Human Rights.
If I had to choose one word to sum him up, it would be "untiring". I guess time has come now for him to have a well-deserved rest. Though wouldn't put it past him to keep an eye, wherever he is -- just in case.
With my sincere condolences on the loss of a special man.
Ingrid
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