Guernsey has its first female ‘Chief Minister’.
Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez was elected by her peers as President of the Policy and Resources Committee this morning.
As widely predicted by many, a three-way election kicked off on Tuesday morning to choose the post holder.
Poll topper Deputy de Sausmarez, former Chief Minister Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq, and former Vice President of P&R Deputy Mark Helyar were all nominated for the role.
A secret ballot was held shortly before midday with all 40 members of the States of Deliberation understood to have been present for the vote.
Deputy de Sausmarez secured a majority of the votes with the backing of 22 States members.
Deputy Le Tocq received seven votes, and Deputy Helyar received 11.
Deputy Tina Bury nominated Deputy de Sausmarez for the position, recalling how they previously worked together, have socialised together, and served in the States together.
“The narrative that has emerged post election is that the electorate had voted for something different. The other candidates, who, of course, are respected and capable colleagues, have been on P&R before, in senior positions, and I know that Deputy de Sausmarez respects this and their experience, however, what we need now is a new way of looking at things and a new way of doing things. This is what Deputy de Sausmarez, as a candidate, offers us in the highest order.
“She topped the poll, the only one of us to break the 10,000 mark. She was ahead of the next in line by nearly 1300 votes. So what I’m saying, sir, is the public very clearly voted for Deputy de Sausmarez. Wouldn’t it be a great footing for us to start on to show we’re listening and do the same?”
Deputy de Sausmarez said she believed her election as ‘Chief Minister’ would reflect what voters wanted at the polls last month.
“The electorate has sent us a clear, powerful message. They want a change of approach. They voted for a fresh start. We now have a younger, more dynamic and more forward looking Assembly. Candidates who showed that they could work constructively were recognised by the voting public. The division and tribalism that marred the last States began right at this point in this very vote in 2020 and it undermined trust from the outset.
“This Assembly, however, feels different. There is new energy, greater diversity and more optimism. We owe it to those who elected us to build on that spirit and show that we can work as one team.
“Now, of course, both other candidates also aspire to unity and cohesion. So what sets me apart? One differentiation is on tax.
“The election results show that many islanders are worried about the GST+ package and want this States to take another look. We need a pragmatic, clear, and balanced approach that builds on the work already done and reassures people we fully explored every option before introducing any new taxes. I believe my position best reflects where the community is and where it wants to go.”
Deputy Le Tocq was nominated by Deputy Sasha Kazantseva-Miller.
She said he has all the qualities we need in a political leader.
“In our consensus and community based government delivery isn’t easy, and is both art and science. Deputy Le Tocq has the experience to see through the noise and to prioritise. He has shown time and time again, that with the right approach, perseverance and diplomacy, it can be done, and we have no time to waste.
“Leadership is also about building bridges, not digging trenches. Deputy Le Tocq combines the Guernsey donkey spirit with the immense compassion, personal integrity, and skills that make him a unique local and global leader.”
Deputy Le Tocq said he also believes he brings the qualities to the States that we need as a P&R President.
“This is not a role I see for personal prestige, but because I believe our islands stand at a critical crossroads, and I believe I have the skills and that I’m ready to lead us forward with experience, humility, resilience and a steady hand. We all know that the next few years will demand more of us than ever, more collaboration, more clarity and more courage. I believe I bring those qualities, and I’m asking for the support of this assembly to help steer Guernsey through what comes next.”
Describing some of his political experience, Deputy Le Tocq said his skills are essential to the States now.
“Let us be honest with ourselves, the challenges facing our Bailiwick are real and they are pressing. Our fiscal position is fragile. Our infrastructure needs modernisation. Our housing market is locking out too many young people and skilled workers, and the longer we delay tough decisions, the more difficult the consequences will become. We need to increase productivity without compromising our quality of life. We need to attract investment without losing our distinct identity, and we need to protect the most vulnerable in our society while living within our means. None of this will be easy, but nor is it impossible. We face it together with focus and shared purpose. That’s why I believe we need leadership that bills bridges rather than battlegrounds. We need not just plans but priorities, and only a few priorities. We can’t have so many priorities that they don’t belong in the category of priority any more.”
Deputy Helyar was nominated by political newcomer Deputy Andrew Niles who was sworn in to the States for the first time this morning.
Deputy Niles extolled Deputy Helyar’s skills and personality traits.
“We must now build consensus to deliver for our community. Mark is a leader who values transparency and accountability. He understands that good governance is not just about making the right decisions, but about explaining them clearly and honestly to the people we serve. He is not afraid to take responsibility, and he expects the same from all of those around him.
“As we look to the future we need a leader who can navigate the complexities of our world with wisdom and foresight. We need a leader who can build bridges and foster collaboration in this assembly. Sir, Mark Helyar’s qualifications are clear – a proven track record, a tireless commitment to our values and the drive to unite diverse voices around common purpose.”
Deputy Helyar explained what his focus will be if he is elected as P&R President.
“My objective for P&R and its members is to work hard trying to make the complex simple. To do that, committees will need to step back at the earliest opportunity, assess the current position, stabilise any business as usual issues, and then consider what’s in delivery stage, pipeline and drafting and prioritise finishing a few things, bite size if you will. And after that, we must iterate according to what resources are available.
“I will lead a P&R whose objective is to support and facilitate our new Housing Committee to deliver practical, sustainable solutions from within the new Housing Plan. This means working across committees to unlock land, streamline planning, support development that meets real needs, and ensure that the third sector and the private sector are active partners in our response.
“This term, housing is not just a policy issue, it is a visible test of our resolve and ability to act and ensure delivery for the common good of this island. A great deal of our responsibility this term lies in the delivery of plans, reviews and inquiries across several principal committees that will require careful planning and coordination. They also come, in many cases, at significant and growing expense, which we cannot readily afford.”
The P&R President is elected by the 40 members of the States of Deliberation – made up of 38 members of the States of Guernsey and two States of Alderney representatives.
After the nominations had been made and speeches given, each member was allowed to ask questions, before the secret ballot was held.
The States of Deliberation will meet again at 09:30 tomorrow to elect the members of Policy and Resources.