After just one candidate out of 82 initially turned up to find out more about animal welfare issues ahead of Guernsey’s 2025 election, more have now taken an interest too.

The GSPCA arranged a number of sessions at its headquarters so that those vying to be in the next States could learn about the “24/7 work” carried out by the charity’s staff and its volunteers.

Only current Deputy Sam Haskins turned up to one of the first three dates offered by GSPCA Manager Steve Byrne, but since then more have expressed an interest.

A session on Wednesday this week saw 20 candidates show up for a tour.

Pictured: Sam Haskins was the only election candidate who turned up for one of the first of three open sessions for election candidates put on by the GSPCA.

“Although the first three events we held at the GSPCA to invite those standing for election to discuss our work, animal welfare challenges, and more importantly our manifesto were poorly attended, (on Wednesday) we were delighted when 20 candidates and current Deputies came along.”

Mr Byrne said the charity wanted to meet with prospective deputies to discuss a variety of issues around animals and animal welfare.

These include the imminent rebuild of the animal shelter, animal welfare laws, licensing proposals for breeders and animal businesses, the impact of fireworks, microchipping, farm animals getting loose, dog faeces not being picked up, risks to nesting birds and bats, disease threats, and challenges around “bureaucracy, red tape and Brexit”.

As with other third sector organisations, the GSPCA’s running costs and ongoing fundraising challenges remain a key issue for the charity too.

Pictured: Steve Byrne spent time discussing issues facing the third sector, and the GSPCA in particular, with election candidates.

Among those who attended the GSPCA’s election session on Wednesday were current and former deputies seeking re-election, with Chris Blin, John Gollop, Sue Aldwell, Adrian Gabriel, and Garry Collins among those seen in the pictures provided.

New and former candidates including Susie Gallienne, Rosie Henderson, Sally Gilman, and Nikki Symons were also present, along with others.

“It was a wonderful to discuss with those standing and explain our challenges and frustrations, the dangers we can find ourselves in, to financial issues from increased costs to our BIGGEST BUILD,” said Mr Byrne.

“We realise it must be a busy time for election candidates and it was so kind for so many to come along.

“Our next event is 4 June at 11:00 although we are happy to meet those unable to attend at arranged times just email steve@gspca.org.gg .”