Government:
We have not seen the expected changes after the last election. We need a review of the system of Government. Decisions are taking too long. We need a collaborative and decisive house, which the Civil Service will act on.
Finance:
As warned by the Chief Executive, we are spending too much. Capital projects are too big and piecemeal. We need far better long-term planning. To keep spending down. The Government is too big. Reductions can be made using good IT systems.
Economy:
The economy is stagnant. We need to invigorate business by helping entrepreneurs, reducing red tape and expediting planning decisions. We must expand dealing with our near neighbours. Government must actively be helping business. Ferries must offer frequent and cost-effective service.
We must expand Highlands to help businesses source local employees to fill and expand the economy, reducing reliance on imported staff. A I will reduce the lower grades of finance etc. and we need to retrain in other fields.
Cost of living:
Is far too high! We must; reduce harbour dues and ferry pricing, increase the tax threshold, encourage discount retailers, reduce tax on fuel and perishables. (Ireland has shown that by reducing taxes you increase income). People must be able to afford to feed their families.
Housing:
We are not providing adequate affordable housing. Increasing business and therefore income our young will hopefully be able to afford a house. There are sites, owned by the Government, that must be released and use modern efficient techniques. Andium should expand building loans. We must resist building on agricultural land.
Health:
We have fantastic front-line staff. Using better integrated AI systems for clerical staff, we can increase front-line clinicians reducing waiting times. I am hopeful of our new hospital, but coordination of the various sites may prove difficult, requiring long term integrated planning.
Mental health provision, particularly for our young, is inadequate, we must increase training and numbers of professionals.
To prevent clogging the system, we need to increase the health and wellbeing of our third age.
Education:
We need more language education. To equip our young for business with other countries. We need to increase pre-school provision, allowing for earlier return to work and children’s mental and physical development.
I want to see an increase in tailored courses at Highlands. The reduction in grants will pay for the tutoring. Industry is showing that degrees are not always the best option, favouring skills-based qualifications.
Environment:
We must continue reducing carbon emissions. Filter for PFAS, support our farming industry, look to increasing Biodiversity and cherish our Island.
Sport/ Culture:
We must promote our sport and culture; it is the very key to our health and wellbeing.
Names of Proposers and Seconders
- Hugh Andrew Pim
- Kenneth Priaulx Vibert
- Susan Philomena Mary Pim
- Douglas Andrew Richardson
- François Amy Le Maistre
- Nicholas James Stephen Arthur
- Christine John Coen
- Hilary Lambert
- Penelope Jane Schindler
- Angela Phyllis McCarthy