As 2026 edges into view, Express has been asking Jersey’s elected representatives to reflect on the political lessons that defined 2025 – and what sustained them when the year got tough…
Over the coming days, we’ll be sharing States Assembly members’ reflections on the highs, the lows and everything in between.
Deputy David Warr
St Helier South Deputy
“My key lesson: that people power is making a comeback.
“The number of people who have physically supported the issues around Havre des Pas pool has been phenomenal. For example, the protest in the Royal Square and attending an emergency meeting.
“My highlight of 2025 was a painful one but supporting Sanctuary trust by sleeping out overnight at Pier road car park, and seeing the charity raise in excess of £40,000.
“What kept me going was learning to swim in the sea. It turned out to be great therapy.”
Deputy Inna Gardiner
St Helier North Deputy
“It hardly seems possible a year has passed since my last annual reflection. The past twelve months have been a reminder of how quickly plans can change – and how important it is to adapt and make the best of whatever comes.
“Seeing other perspectives, flexibility, compromise and a sense of humour have been invaluable.
“One of my clearest lessons of 2025 is that meaningful change takes time, and progress is rarely the work of just one person.
“Some of the policies now benefiting islanders – including free school meals and extended childcare for two- and three-year-olds – were started before my time, moved forward during my term as Minister, and built on and delivered by the current Minister.
“That continuity matters and I am sure my Age-Friendly Infrastructure proposition adopted this year, is picked up by future planners helping us have a more joined-up view of how we design our public spaces.
“The lesson is simple but powerful: be grateful to those who started the work, do your part well, and trust those who come after you to finish the job.
“Progress doesn’t come from grand gestures – it comes from trusting the direction, doing your bit and sticking with it, even when it feels like nothing is happening and the pace tests your patience.
“A small change in direction at the start of a journey can lead to a large difference in destination years later.
“On a lighter note, we’ve navigated shifting political dynamics, rediscovered the joys of long debates, lost the heating in the Assembly and got it back. Everything moves in circles and the old really does become new again.
“As new opportunities open up for Jersey and St Helier, this is the right moment to be optimistic, ambitious, and practical in equal measure.
“May we all make the most of the opportunities in the year ahead – without snakes.”
Constable Kevin Lewis
St Saviour Connétable
“It’s been a challenging year, but the positives for me were hosting St Saviour’s Liberation 80 event in the parish’s refurbished recreation ground next to the church.
“Also, buying an additional cottage in our parish housing stock to rent to a local family.
“And receiving permission from parishioners to apply for planning permission for a car park and parish park behind the parish hall.”
“What got me through a week of Budget debate in the Assembly was maintaining St Saviour’s Church clock. It is very therapeutic.”
Deputy Andy Howell
St John, St Lawrence and Trinity Deputy
“The key lesson I learned this year; make the most of every day, keep smiling, tell your family you love them and be kind.
“Also, do as much good for others as you can.
“My highlight of 2025 was the re-opening of Rayner Ward, a dedicated women’s ward at the General Hospital, plus the opening of the Breast Screening Unit at the Enid Quenault Health and Wellbeing Centre.
“And, what kept me going was sea swims at Bouley Bay, time with family and friends in our little boat, and walks with our two dogs, Tess and Jessie.”