"Decisive action" needed by new States

Friday 06 November 2020

The Institute of Directors has welcomed the ‘action-orientated’ first speech by Guernsey’s new Chief Minister, but would like to hear more about how the finance industry will be supported by the new Assembly.

Deputy Peter Ferbrache gave a general update on the Policy & Resources Committee during the first ordinary meeting of the term this week, outlining their primary objectives and the approach they will be taking to tackling them.

The IoD vision for cross-committee work will be a ‘significant step’ towards addressing many of the issues that face the new States.

“Our pre-election member survey highlighted physical and digital connectivity, education and the island’s relationship with the UK and EU as high priority areas,” they said.

“We are, therefore, pleased to see many of these policy areas highlight in his first statement. The ability for the new States to get a policy agreed and enacted, resulting in fibre to all, will be a litmus test.”

The IoD were also ‘delighted’ to see that P&R Vice President Heidi Soulsby will be leading a review of the structure of the government and the Civil Service, which 70% of its members saw as a priority. The desire to empower the Douzaines was also ‘welcome news’ as this could enable the Assembly to focus more on its key priorities.

'This States will be judged by its actions and not words and the messages so far are very encouraging.' Following yesterday's statement by the President of the Policy & Resources Committee, the IoD has issued a full response here: https://t.co/tMgKP3j0yb pic.twitter.com/2xwy4qjXEa

— IoD Guernsey (@IoDGsy) November 5, 2020

“We look forward to hearing more about the proposed Guernsey investment body to be led by Deputy St Pier,” said the spokesperson. “The island is fortunate to have various investment portfolios which represent an opportunity for economic growth, and ultimately the wellbeing of our island.”

They added that ‘decisive action’ was needed on support for the finance industry:

“Increasing funding to Guernsey Finance, addressing the many challenges our tourist industry faces, and the interplay of both with our population regime is critical for the island’s economic and social prosperity.

“As ever, this States will be judged by its actions and not words, but the messages so far are very encouraging.”

Pictured top: Chief Minister Peter Ferbrache's plan of action for the new States Assembly has been welcomed by the Institute of Directors