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 Malcolm Ferey
St Saviour Deputy, Assistant Chief Minister, Assistant Minister for Children and Families
“I have learned that play is upstream of co-operation.
“If we teach our children and young people how to play and allow them to have access to play spaces that provide opportunities for pleasant, real-world distractions from the digital space, we will raise communicative, well-rounded people who interact positively within the community.
“I have also learned that foster carers and people who adopt children need more recognition for the fantastic outcomes they create, within the loving homes they provide, for the children who are in their care.
“As the vice-chair of the States Employment Board, I get to present the ‘long-service’ and ‘our stars’ awards. The highlight is speaking to people who, in some cases, have spent 40 years within the civil service.
“I also love presenting awards to people who have gone the extra mile during the year and their colleagues have recognised this and felt they deserved recognition. Civil servants are sometimes an easy target and on a daily basis I see first-hand the great work that they do.
“Politics can be all-consuming, to square this I allocate some of my free time to clubs and associations where discussing politics is considered out-of-bounds.
“This allows me to have deep conversations with like-minded people without ever referring to my work, which is a great way to enjoy some rest and refreshment.
“Family support, of course, is paramount in keeping me going.”
Deputy Hilary Jeune
St John, St Lawrence and Trinity Deputy, Chair of the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel
“My key lesson from this year is that scrutiny really matters. When it’s done properly, it can genuinely change outcomes – improving policy and legislation in ways that make a real difference to people’s everyday lives.
“It’s reminded me that asking the right questions, and taking the time to dig into the detail, isn’t obstructionist; it’s essential.
“Without doubt the highlight of the year was, scrutinising the Residential Tenancy Law. It was demanding and, at times, challenging, but incredibly rewarding.
“Through careful scrutiny and constructive amendments, we were able to help bring both sides together and reach sensible compromises. I don’t think it would have got there without Scrutiny’s work.
“Knowing that the final law is stronger and fairer as a result made all the long hours worthwhile.
“Sea swimming with my friends kept me going. There’s something about being in the water – whatever the weather or temperature – that clears the head and restores perspective. It’s where I recharge, laugh, and relax.”
Deputy Max Andrews
St Helier North Deputy
“The biggest lesson I learned is how incapable the current States Assembly is at managing public finances.
“My highlight? Getting the government to investigate pre-sale agreements becoming statute was a massive step forward.
“What kept me going was my partner and my dog, Samson.”
Deputy Moz Scott
St Brelade Deputy, Assistant Minister for Sustainable Economic Development
“The key lesson I have learned this year is that a trip to the supermarket will always become a constituency surgery.
“My highlight was working with Andium to help a constituent with limited mobility find a forever home after a wait of several years.
“Being persistent in caring for others kept me going. Deep breathing, the support of some brilliant government and Greffe officers, walks, workouts, family & friends, church, pets, music and humour all have helped too.”
