Vale boosted by parish champions

Thursday 31 December 2020

Concerned about losing the parish voice upon moving to an island-wide voting system, the Vale Douzaine have sought out three resident deputies to act as 'parish champions'.

Senior Constable Richard Leale issued an appeal for representation following Douzaine concerns that their views would not be heard as clearly by government, after parish representatives were replaced by island-wide States members.

However the parish's call was answered by three residents – Deputies Neil Inder, Chris Le Tissier and Liam McKenna – who Mr Leale hopes will represent the parish as much as is possible within the new political system.

"We were delighted the three new States members accepted our invitation to attend the last Douzaine meeting and discuss States and parish issues and meet members of the Douzaine," he said. "I think it's fair to say we all came away with the firm impression that they will act as 'parish deputies' as far as they can and the new system allows."

Pictured: The three deputies will be invited to future parish meetings. The Douzaine also took the chance to thank its former Vale deputies for their support and help over the years at its recent meeting. 

In response to the new system, the Douzaine has decided to amend its meeting dates to the Monday before the States meeting so matters on the agenda can be considered ahead of debate. 

"It is also our intention to invite States committee presidents of departments with particular relevance to the Vale to attend to talk on an issue of particular parish interest," said Mr Leale.

"We're still working on this engagement programme but it's likely to involve politicians with responsibility for issues including Development and Planning, Environment and Infrastructure, including roads, traffic, parking and flood defences."

Pictured top: Deputies Chris Le Tissier, Neil Inder and Liam McKenna.