GDA Hustings aims to get candidates up to speed on disabilities

Wednesday 16 September 2020

Election candidates will tonight have the opportunity to discuss the issues facing disabled islanders as part of the Guernsey Disability Alliance’s third Speed Hustings event.

GDA members will once again be able to meet with prospective deputies, having run similar events ahead of previous election.

“The speed hustings format has been very popular over the last 2 elections,” said Partnership Director Karen Blanchford. “It has been encouraging to see them embraced by other topic areas.”

“The format gives candidates a chance to meet with, and understand, the issues faced by the group, and the volunteers an opportunity to meet new candidates and assess their knowledge and potential ability to deliver on policies.”

The GDA hustings are one of several events in the election cycle to use the ‘speed hustings’ format; a number of third sector organisations have launched their own events for specific topics such as social issues and climate change.

Director of Social Policy Carol Le Page said that format is very helpful for both candidates and voters.

“Hustings are a great opportunity for people with disabilities and impairments, and their carers to tell candidates how challenging life in Guernsey can be,” she said. “We hope that candidates’ greater understanding will then influence their support for policy and legislation change if they are elected.”

All candidates are invited to attend at St Pierre Park on 16 September 16 from 18:00 to 20:00. Due to the speed hustings format, the event will not be open to the public, but members of the GDA will receive information about what was discussed.