Smaller government and digitisation: two ways Guernsey could improve

Monday 12 February 2018

Dr Stretch Kontelj, a former Australian Mayor and director of Specsavers' international law team, has given a talk reflecting on where Guernsey fell on the global stage.

He was invited to attend the Institute of Directors February lunch to give his insights from what is an unusual perspective.

And while not everyone at the lunch agreed with Dr Stretch's ideas, he compared the island to how his home city had operated in the past, and made recommendations as to how Guernsey could take advantage of a world that is changing.

"In the chaos of a 'post truth', 'fake news' world, the irony is we are all looking for greater certainty for Guernsey and its residents - and, critically for us, greater certainty for business, which will be a key driver determining Guernsey's success," Dr Stretch said in his speech.

"So what to do? The island needs to reflect on what has made it successful and to build on that. Looking at it from an outsider's point of view with the benefit of having lived here now for getting onto three years I see Guernsey's greatest assists as follows: Independence from the UK, Single tier government, stable system of government and a well developed legal system, attractive tax system conducive to entrepreneurship, harmonious population, public safety, sense of community."

One of the areas highlighted by Dr Kontelj was the potential for the island to have a smaller government. He compared it to when he was mayor of Geelong in Australia, where there was a much larger population but much smaller system of government.

The topic of Brexit was also discussed at length, and how it might affect Guernsey in many different facets.

"I am hoping my talk was respectful because I don't think its an outsiders place to come in and criticise everything, but I was happy to offer some insight from my experiences on what could maybe help Guernsey in being as successful as possible in the future," Dr Kontelj said following the lunch.

While the IOD audience asked a number of questions challenging Dr Kontelj's ideas, he said much of what he talked about was just ideas, and the general purpose was to create discussion: "that is the best way for things to improve - when you have a group of leaders like that, you can really make strides by discussing how and why things should be done".

"If there is a theme that runs through my various insights it is connectivity. Global and business connectivity through embracing technology, connectivity by sea and air and connectivity politically and diplomatically. Howell the issue of connectivity is handled will determine Guernsey's future," his speech continued. 

"[That] concludes my wide ranging presentation. Having said that, ny final passing reflection is that Guernsey is fantastic. In my opinion one of the worlds best kept secrets. But we, as a collective group, need to work and fight together to keep it so. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak to you today and for listening so attentively. Its been my honour and pleasure."