Dr Melissa McCullough, the Pan Island Commissioner for Standards, undertook the investigation into Deputy Blin’s actions, a report of which can be found ONLINE.
Dr McCullough identified the following facts:
“Deputy Blin, in forwarding a private email to a third party without Members’ knowledge or consent, breached the requirements of the Code of Conduct relating to confidentiality,” concluded Dr McCullough.
“I am of the view that Deputy Blin should provide an apology; however, under the current legislation this is not an available sanction in the context of this complaint. Therefore, I must recommend Deputy Blin be formally reprimanded.”
The States Assembly and Constitution Committee debated whether or not to reprimand him during today’s [June 19] debate.
They were asked: “Whether, after consideration of the findings in the Report entitled “Report by the Pan-Island Commissioner for Standards on a self-initiated investigation into Deputy Christopher Blin” dated 25th March 2024, they are of the opinion:
“That Deputy Christopher Blin be hereby formally reprimanded pursuant to the Code of Conduct for Members of the States of Deliberation.”
“Deputy Blin has made a fulsome and humble apology,” said Deputy Peter Ferbrache,“and I think we ought to accept that.”
Speaking briefly, the President of Policy and Resources, Deputy Lyndon Trott said: “Deputy Blin has with good grace accepted the formal reprimand and admitted he made a mistake.
“He is unlikely to make it again and my advice is the assembly moves on and moves on quickly.
“The general public are generally disinterested in our internal matters, and clearly want us to debate matters that concern the progress of our community.“
Debate was guillotined by Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq.
The chamber voted 37 in favour, one against and two people didn’t vote.