Election 2008

Jo Spinks.

The first duty of government is to protect the weak and vulnerable in society whilst encouraging a climate for businesses to thrive and produce economic growth. It should not be run as a closed cartel of business people not open to accountability, and if elected I would hope to achieve more balance in the House.

Present States members liken being in government to "running a business" – what business do you know of where the employees aren't accountable to the wage payer – ie. the tax payer?

It is a disgrace that due to mismanagement of construction projects the public will have to resort to charity campaigns, relying on sponsorship and promotions to ensure that we have vital facilities such as Castel Hospital and Beaucamps School. However in the true Guernsey spirit I think we can achieve this if we work together and show the States just what team work means. 

If elected I would like to see:-

• Accountability and transparency to the taxpayer and the introduction of the Freedom of Information Act. Being 6 years behind the UK implementing this Act does immense damage to our international reputation and makes us look suspicious and furtive.
• More use of local builders for States projects to save costs on imported labour and a review of the tendering/contract process.
• Imported professionals on 5-year licences to train classes leading to qualifications, instead of allowing outsiders to take the place of unqualified local staff.
• Improved international reputation and less legislation to enable the finance industry to get on with the business of economic growth.
• Sewage treated.
• Smoking ban not extended to cars.
• A States campaign for Castel Hospital and Beaucamps School.
• The Channel Islands to become the Off Shore Centre of Europe
• Fuel cost aid for pensioners.