Gov. Linda Lingle has used her weekly radio address to comment on last week's attempt by members of a pro-Hawaiian sovereignty group to take over 'Iolani Palace.

Some 23 people were arrested during the incident, in which members of the Kingdom of Hawaii locked the gates to the palace.

The palace reopened yesterday for public viewing.

Lingle made the following comments in her radio address:

"Worldwide, Hawai'i is known for our people and the tremendous respect and aloha we have for each other.

"But the events that occurred recently at 'Iolani Palace were not representative of Hawai'i. Damaging public property and hurting and threatening others is not the 'Hawai'i way.'"

"I have met with state and county law enforcement officials, and we have reaffirmed our unconditional commitment to ensure the safety of our residents and visitors, as well as the protection of property, regardless of where an incident occurs.

"As our 50th anniversary of statehood commemoration unfolds over the next year, I encourage all Hawai'i residents to go one step further in showing respect for each other. It is important that we have meaningful discussions in appropriate ways to observe this milestone in our state's history, and to focus on our future."

The radio address airs at various times throughout the week on radio stations statewide. To listen to this week's address or to hear past addresses, visit the governor's Web site at www.hawaii.gov/gov/news/radioadd.