As we approach the twilight of my first term serving the parishioners of St Ouen, I can say unequivocally what an honour and privilege it has been. It was therefore not a difficult decision when approached, to put my name forward to serve you for a further term.
Standing for reelection is very different to standing for election first time around. I, as with all States members, am accountable for my performance and promises, so it’s appropriate that I take a moment to reflect on these past four years. In my 2022 manifesto, I expressed my intention to push forward with projects such as Homes for the Elderly, low-cost housing for young people, the extension of main sewer systems to all properties, mains water for everyone and kerbside recycling.
Progress is rarely simple, and the challenges faced have been both motivating and frustrating, almost in equal measure! However, progress there has been, and with planning permission now granted to develop 12 new Over 55’s units on a site in Rue de la Croix, it’s a project I hope to see through to its completion in 2027.
Low-cost housing for young people continues to be a major problem, not just for St Ouen but the island as a whole. The future issue is likely to be the over supply of low cost housing at increasing costs, and we could be heading towards a social housing crisis.
Mains drains and water supply is inadequate in almost every one of the rezoned land sites of the Bridging Island Plan. Residents continue to be let down by local authorities. Residents shouldn’t be expected to pay £45k to connect to mains water 800 metres away. It will cost £500k to resolve this issue. This is an island-wide problem that demands Government support.
I was delighted to introduce the recycling scheme in 2024 to St Ouen. We were able to implement the scheme using existing human resources, and credit is deserved to all involved, not least our residents who have embraced it enthusiastically.
If reelected, I will continue to put the Parish of St Ouen at the forefront of everything I do. I have sat on the Planning Committee, Scrutiny Panel and played an integral role in the Firearms Review during this term. However, I see the role of Connétable as a Ministerial post in itself and my focus will remain entirely on looking after people’s needs, rather than seeking a position as Minister or Deputy Minister.
Please use your important vote on 7 June 2026. Thank you.
Names of Proposers and Seconders
- Brian Philip Follain
- Raymond George Hedges
- Douglas Andrew Richardson
- Trevor Francis de la Haye
- Avril Mary Georgina Rimeur
- Paul James
- Christine Jean Hellio
- Ashley Mark Le Sech
- Michael John Paddock
- Kenneth William Syvret