Proceedings have paused for the usual two-hour lunch, so I am now able to report on the morning whilst enjoying my shake (I’m dieting). Lindsay de Sausmarez has so far proposed and seconded in tandem with Gavin St Pier for every successful nominee, suggesting considerable behind-the-scenes co-ordination. Given that only two of the below were challenged, I think deputies are taking the public call for collaboration and cohesion seriously, not wanting to earn the infamous “worst States ever” moniker just yet. As such, all presidential nominations today thus far received over 30 votes for the successful candidate, usually 35 or 37 (out of a possible 40 but not all members were present). They know the public are keeping tabs.
Economic Development – After Chris Blin had said he was going to drop out to support Sasha Kazantseva-Miller to position himself for vice presidency, I was surprised to find him up as a candidate. As it turns out, it’s because nobody else chose to stand in the end, and he wanted Sasha to earn her presidency. Both put on strong performances, but SKM was the clear winner anyway, with 32 votes to 6. Very good to hear that they want to listen to businesses, ensure the current and future workforces are appropriately provided for in terms of training, and to ride/harness the wave of AI rather than let it leave devastation and chaos in its wake. Both spoke to the urgency of diversifying the economy (especially renewables in the sea and digital on land), which was very welcome. I’m very hopeful of good outcomes for ED this term.
Education, Sport & Culture – Lindsay de Sausmarez had managed to persuade Paul Montague to stand for the presidency. Sarah Hansmann-Rouxel decided not to stand in the end, same with Aidan Matthews. Having heard Paul’s speech — and that he will likely have Aidan Matthews and/or Sarah Hansmann-Rouxel on hand to assist (hopefully in a vice-presidential capacity). I think he can successfully navigate elements of the role he will be unfamiliar with. Considering there are significant challenges in terms of funding and the sheer amount that needs to be delivered on, I’m very hopeful this term, though not as much as I would be if funding weren’t an issue.
Employment & Social Security – Lindsay put up Tina Bury, not just because she’s her friend but also because she’s the best person for the job. Given that the ESS mandate is one of both attention to detail and compassion, I wholeheartedly agree with her choice. In Tina’s speech, she spoke of parental leave, SLAWS (a horrible acronym that deals with the long-term strategy of elderly care, whether it be health provision or accommodation), sexual discrimination, lowering contributions for the self-employed, and being ever mindful of the impact of AI on the workforce. I have very high hopes for ESS this term.
Environment & Infrastructure – LDS found an excellent, knowledgeable, thoughtful and driven successor for her at E&I in Adrian Gabriel. Again, uncontested. Again, I think he’s the best man for the job and agree with LDS that he’s simply a very nice man! He understands the challenges and has the passion to deliver.
Health & Social Care – George Oswald was the only candidate, this time proposed by Gavin St Pier and seconded by LDS. Given his background (both operational and strategic) plus last term’s exposure to HSC as a voluntary non-voting member, he is the only pick I think most would have considered. Al Brouard’s lack of operational experience last term was a huge drawback. I have confidence in George and his mandate; however, he did say he will treat third-party providers with impartiality. I hope he does. I’ll be watching.
Just before we went for lunch, the Bailiff decided to have Home’s candidates step forward and opening pitches given, with questions after lunch.
Home Affairs – Marc Leadbeater was the P&R pick, followed by Simon Vermeulen (proposed by Liam McKenna, missed who seconded him) and Jane Ozanne (proposed by Sally Rochester and seconded by Tom Rylatt). ML had a fractious relationship with the committee last term and left it under a cloud. Simon Vermeulen filled the void as vice president and presented himself very much as the continuity candidate, with Leadbeater wanting to take a different path. Is there room for a third path and a third type of experience? Enter Jane Ozanne. She has considerable experience in political, religious and business circles in matters pertaining to home affairs, law, social justice and change management but not Guernsey politics (first-hand, anyway). Given that all three are pulling in different directions and the pool of candidates for Home members will be small, at least one unsuccessful presidential candidate will likely get on the committee. I fear this may be the committee that will lack cohesion this term. Watch this space.
This afternoon, we will find out who becomes the Home Affairs president, as well as the postholders for the presidencies of the Scrutiny Management Committee, States Assembly & Constitution Committee, States Trading & Supervisory Board, Development & Planning Authority, Transport Licensing Authority and Overseas Aid.
Tom Moore for Deputy 