Alderney’s most senior politician resigns

Thursday 09 June 2022

Alderney’s most senior politician is stepping down from the top role for health reasons.

Bill Abel has resigned as Alderney’s Chairman of the Policy and Finance Committee.

Deputy Chairman Ian Carter will be taking over as Acting Chairman until the Alderney States elects a replacement in its June meeting.

Mr Abel said he made the decision in light of a debilitating hip and knee condition. He said he was on a waiting a list for major surgery later this year.

In his resignation letter Mr Abel said: “Although the challenges of a second wave of Covid made progressing things difficult in the first few months I feel that, as a group of committed people, who are both part of States Committees and Working Groups, we have moved forward even with the necessity to deal with a number of unexpected and legacy issues.” 

Pictured: Mr Abel has been a States member since October 2020 and was elected Chairman of P&F in January 2021.

Mr Abel most notably worked with the States of Guernsey to agree a Public Service Obligation (PSO) with Aurigny. He said while there is still more work to do, he will be available to help his colleagues “where members feel I can add value”.

“It has been a privilege to have been able to serve the community and I would like to thank States Members and everyone in the Civil Service for their help and support.”