We, the undersigned, believe that Guernsey is approaching a crossroads.
We have joined together in this open call, to protect what we have in this wonderful island. An island we all love. We believe that the direction the island takes in the next few months could have a significant impact for local businesses and all of us that live here.
The world continues to change and will keep changing, and we need to be better prepared and capable of dealing with it more effectively.
It has been reported that the number of people that have registered to vote is down from this stage in 2020. Popular opinion is that this is because there is ‘no point in voting’, and that feeling has arisen because of a disconnect between the elected members and those that elected them.
For too long we have been ill-served by a system that is no longer fit for purpose and doesn’t allow for practical and quick decisions in a modern world.
Just by way of example, this States term:
- authorised a sub-committee to investigate potentially radical changes to what was described as the “machinery of government” but after over two years ended the process with no firm conclusions as ‘consensus could not be reached’.
- recognised at the beginning of the 2020 term that Island finances were in a difficult place and undertook a fiscal review led by senior politicians, in consultation with two leading accountancy firms and independent financial experts. Having spent the time and resources the States rejected the proposals twice before finally approving the same package at the third attempt and having wasted a further two years.
The issues have been well known for a quarter of a century having been identified in 2000 in the Harwood Report. That report noted the need for a more agile and focused system of government.
We feel the first step is to put in place a system of Government that can make pragmatic and difficult decisions – at a pace.
We believe this can only be achieved by adopting an executive-style government similar to those found in the UK or Jersey.
Important and far-reaching decisions will be made quicker, and Guernsey needs this in ever-changing times. As a community we are in the midst of the double-whammy of a housing crisis whilst facing serious fiscal constraints. Our current situation stems from decades of ineffectual leadership and political posturing, and we run the risk of undoing the hard work of previous generations if we don’t, as a community, demand better. However, in demanding better of our elected representatives we must give them the tools to be better. A better system under which to operate.
Without proper, bold leadership the Island faces a managed decline. These are serious times that call for professional, brave and serious people.
So, together, what can we do to protect this Island that we all love?
We are asking two things:
- Firstly, please take a few moments to register on to the electoral roll – your vote DOES matter. Each of us has the power to take responsibility for the way the Island is governed, and the elections are the time to exercise that power. It is true that “in a democracy, the people get the government they deserve”. Your vote is precious and is the most powerful tool you have. Please don’t let it sit idle.
- Secondly, utilise your vote to elect candidates who unequivocally commit to implementing a more executive-style government and the absolute accountability that accompanies it. A system that will allow the government to make savings through efficiencies and support growth in the economy.
Time is running out for Guernsey to address the challenges it currently encounters. While some unpopular decisions may be necessary, we strongly encourage all citizens to thoroughly understand the implications of their votes and the potential outcomes when the new Assembly assumes office.
As signatories to this open letter, we have assembled from a multitude of diverse backgrounds and we urge the Guernsey electorate, regardless of their socio-economic status, political beliefs, or demographic background, to unite behind this concept.
Together, we can change things for the better.
Together, we can make a difference.
We stand at a crossroads. We must take the right path.
Please stand with us in our call for change for the good of Guernsey
Thank you,
Signed by:
- Dave Beausire – Owner, Le Mont Saint Garage
- Martin Belcher – Chairman, Polygon Collective
- Nick Graham – Owner, OSA Recruitment
- Charles McHugh – Partner, Strategic Development Partnership LLP
- Andrew Niles – Director, Charter Consulting Limited
- Paul Nobes – Owner, Infinity Group
- David Piesing – Licensed Personal Fiduciary/ Non-Executive Director
- Gavin Rihoy – Chairman, JW Rihoy & Sons Ltd
- Jeremy Rihoy – MD Pine Trees Properties Ltd
- Dan Taylor – MD, JW Rihoy & Sons Ltd
- Simon Torode – Founder/CEO, Livingroom
- Ian Walker – Chairman, Little Big Group
- Peter Ward
- Geoff Wilson – Director, Aqua-Star