Why become a Senator?
I have a deep love and affection for the beautiful island I grew up in and its proud independent thinking people. In my youth my father toured the Island giving talks about life during The Occupation showing the film my Grandfather had secretly taken at the time. My relatives knew first hand that money is the most fickle of the resources Jersey possesses, they valued our tourists, unique cows, apples, potatoes, coastline and countryside, which need our protection.
As an Islander I was brought up believing that once you achieved financial security, it was time to put your energy back into serving your community. The local parish, shop, doctor that intimately knows its parishioners is in danger of being eroded and replaced by faceless services. Healthy communities are based on trusting relationships built over time. I believe it is not too late to preserve what makes Jersey special.
I am new to politics, however as a family doctor I have listened to the difficulties faced by Islanders from all walks of life. The States are about to spend considerable amounts of money on trying to improve our Health Services. I believe it is essential to have someone with professional knowledge and understanding of what works in practice and where gaps lie involved at a political level.
Economy and the Taxpayer
Expenditure is forecast to outstrip income in future years. Before we talk of loans, rationing, raising taxes or insurance schemes we need to ensure money is spent efficiently and effectively. Are frontline staff free to do their job or being drowned in paperwork, assessments, meetings and process? Is government helping business to flourish or are we in danger of over regulating and stifling innovation?
A Single Health Budget
Traditional Health and Social Services are unlikely to be able to cope with rising demands. They are showing signs of strain, with growing waiting lists. Fighting for budgets wastes time and creates hostility. Short term planning and restructuring causes insecurity and diverts staff’s attention away from doing their best. We have yet to fully use the skills and enthusiasm of frontline staff. Their input is too often misinterpreted and viewed as challenging.
I believe we have the freedom and opportunity to work together to provide health and social services that are the envy of the World.
Education
It is the first three years of life, where 90% of brain growth occurs. Young children thrive in stimulating, caring environments, where indoor and outdoor
play helps lead to physical & mental health. Families and friends need support and sufficient time to spend with each other to nurture relationships.
Children and young people have different strengths and weaknesses; one size does not suit all. Education should be tailored to individual needs and aimed at helping each young person find a useful role in society, nurturing a sense of identity, loyalty and pride.
A healthy population is the basis of a healthy economy.
Dr Zoe Cameron committed to open, honest, dependable government.