Initially a replacement would take on the remainder of the current four year term expiring on 31 July, 2026.
It is a pro bono role which provides an opportunity to make decisions “that will have a real and enduring impact on the lives of some of the world’s poorest communities”.
Deputy Chris Blin, the President of the OA&DC, said the Commissioners use their own experiences and professional knowledge to ensure that the annual grant the Commission receives from the States is used to support projects offering sustainable improvements elsewhere.
Pictured: Deputy Chris Blin has overseen payments to other countries including Turkey, to help them cope after natural disasters such as earthquakes.
“If you have experience of developing countries and aid, this is a relatively rare opportunity to use this expertise and skills in Guernsey. As well as helping the poorest of the poor around the world you will also be playing an active role in your own community. The depth of experience we have in such a small Island continues to impress me and I am sure I won’t be disappointed on this occasion.
“The Commissioners will assess grant aid applications and also have the opportunity to consider and support new overseas aid initiatives, including providing guidance and putting forward ideas based on their own knowledge and professional expertise.”
Judy Moore, Commissioner and current Vice President, said it’s an interesting and exciting role for local residents with an active interest in developing country issues, especially development aid.
“I feel that being a Commissioner has enabled me to use my experience to guide the decisions made in relation to the distribution of Guernsey’s aid budget on behalf of the Island population. Opportunities to discuss projects with my fellow Commissioners and to meet representatives of local and national charities, combined with research into the areas we have been asked to support, have enabled me to develop my understanding of the needs and priorities of communities less fortunate than ourselves. It has been a privilege to contribute towards improving the lives of people in some of the least developed countries in the world.”
Commissioners are appointed by the States on recommendation by the Commission. The role does not involve overseas travel.
Applications are welcome from local residents with development aid experience in one or more of the following areas:
– Medicine
– Education, especially within primary or secondary schools
– Micro-finance and community savings programmes
– Engineering, especially in relation to solar power and hydrology
– Climate change and mitigation of its impact;
– Legal matters
Further information is available from David Way, the Commission’s Principal Officer, on 223404 or overseasaid@gov.gg.
Applications should be made by 12:00 Thursday 19 October.
Pictured top: Kibera, an area supported by the Guernsey Overseas Aid and Development Commission previously.