Election 2008

Elected to the States in September 2005 (By-election), I seek re-election so that the four year term is served and a full part played in elections of Ministers, Departments and Committees. My honesty, integrity and common sense do not allow promises to be made that are unachievable. I do listen to all arguments put forward for any proposal. Voting, however, should be organised electronically! Were that done, there would always be records of how members voted.

I guarantee that all issues will be studied fully and papers/documents read, thus doing my best to understand matters being debated. 

There are many areas on which I have strong views and have made them clear over the years:
– The need for modern facilities for staff and pupils in schools that must be fit for purpose, as should those for mental health care. 
– The minimum wage and encouragement for business go together to make Guernsey a better place to work. Providing entrepreneurs with space for industrial development is essential if the Island is to continue to be a vibrant economy with facilities to match.
– Housing and the role of private landlords in providing accommodation, remain issues.
– Maintain existing proposals for taxation and not introduce new ones without consultation. Bring Social Security and Income Tax collection together where efficiencies can be achieved.
– Support for all our Emergency Services.
– Ensure that accountability in all areas of the States is strengthened and the culture changed to ensure this.
– The independent work of the Public Accounts Committee has to be more readily accepted by States’ members and public servants.
– Environment’s operations require greater co-ordination.
– Agreement about waste disposal methods.

The Government Business Plan, a useful tool, looks forward, providing scope for proper planning in the long term for major projects, as well encouraging Departments to work more collaboratively.