States Chamber

Waste

It took deputies just under two days to make a decision on this one, and it was by no means a straight forward debate.

The original proposals were basically a shortlist of possible solutions to Guernsey's rubbish problems - and basically what members were being asked to do is approve this, so the Public Services department can go out to tender for companies to come forward... and then make the final decision.

There was an attempt to delay the whole debate, one to ensure the States were presented with three options to choose between, and two deputies also tried to push for the predicted figures of how much rubbish we'll produce in future to be looked at.

All these were thrown out - the only successful amendment to the report was the Public Services Department relinquished its right to have a final say, and a report will be bought back to the House.

But when that happens there was a clear message to the department from a number of members: if the end solution anyway involves mass burn incineration we will not accept it. Which of course would mean it was back to the drawing board.

Government Business Plan

This was just an update, pairing up the views deputies voiced in their manifestos with the key priorities of the plan. And the conclusion - there was not a need for any drastic changes.

But what was clear is that the newer members of the Assembly want to put their stamp on the plan. They will get the opportunity - there will be lots of seminars and discussions from Autumn... ahead of another report being drawn up next year.

Tax on Benefits in Kind

From January 2009 the way social security contributions are collected on benefits in kind will change. It will be automatically deducted by the employer.

A few concerns raised during this - the impact of this on smaller businesses, and generally the impact on the middle earners - is this another burden? Although Deputy Charles Parkinson said this is not in any way changing the amount of tax people have to pay... just making sure everyone pays it, so it is a fairer system.

An update on the States Finances

The Interim Financial report was presented to the States giving an update on 2008, and looking back at 2007 spending. All deputies just have to note it, but it does allow them to talk about the issues.

De Lisle raised States Pension funds

A few of the talking points included ensuring resources and staffing is looked at - to ensure the States are not just spending the island's money more efficiently, but are using the people available in the best way.

Deputy David De Lisle raised the issue of the funds available for states employees pensions there and how they have been declining over recent months. There has been a decline of 90 million pounds in the fund this year - and he wanted to know why. 

Knife Crime

Deputies agreed to make it illegal for under 18s to buy knives, unless it is for domestic use in which case you will have to be over 16. There will also be tighter restrictions on the marketing of knives, and Police will have more powers to stop and search people.

The report came about because of concerns there is a growing knife culture locally, and aims to stop the problem before it becomes one. But it was not without opposition - some members thought it went too far, others were worried about the definition of a bladed object... would it stop youngsters buying screwdrivers, tent pegs or tools needed for apprenticeships? The Home Department Minister, Geoff Mahy, said there was a need for a common sense attitude towards the law.

St Peter Port Harbour Cranes

The cranes which handle 98 percent of the Island's freight need replacing - but the work will not come cheap at around ten million pounds. This will allow for two mobile cranes to be bought, and the quay to be reinforced.

After some debate the States agreed to allow the Public Service Department to go out to tender for the project.

House Committee

The House Committee will now be known as the States Assembly and Constitution Committee. There was also a report from the committee to give the States more of a say on the makeup of sub-groups formed to look into particular issues. However, after a close vote, this was thrown out