I am standing for re-election because I care deeply about St Peter and the community that makes our parish such a special place. St Peter has a proud rural character, a strong sense of community with a long tradition of parish life that parishioners value greatly. If re-elected I will work with parishioners to ensure St Peter continues to be a great place to live.
Many families are feeling the pressure of the rising cost of living. Housing, childcare and everyday expenses are becoming more challenging, particularly for younger families trying to remain in the parish. It is important that St Peter remains a parish where families can live, work and raise their children. Sensible planning decisions can help ensure the parish remains accessible to future generations while protecting the character that parishioners value.
Protecting the rural character of St Peter is essential. The countryside, agricultural land and open spaces are an important part of the parish’s identity. Future development must be carefully considered so that it supports the community’s needs without changing the character of the parish.
Residents also frequently raise concerns about traffic and road safety. With busy routes running through the parish and increasing traffic across the island, these issues are important to many parishioners. I believe practical solutions and constructive dialogue are important to help address these concerns and improve safety for residents.
Representing the parish means focusing first and foremost on the needs of St Peter and its parishioners, however through my work as Minister for Children and Families, I have also seen how challenges affecting young people can sometimes impact local communities. At one stage St Peter experienced issues with antisocial behaviour, graffiti and property damage that understandably concerned residents. By working with youth services and community organisations it was possible to address these issues. Supporting young people and addressing problems early benefits the whole community.
I know that many of you are concerned about the levels of PFAS in the water and land in the parish. I wish to see levels in our drinking water reduced to safer levels and was disappointed that legislation to this effect was delayed until the next Government.
Responsible management of parish finances is also vital. Parish rates represent a contribution from parishioners who rightly expect careful use of those funds. There are several projects I wish to complete, that will benefit the community, but only if parish finances permit.
Above all, I believe parish government works best when it is approachable, practical and responsive. I will work with parishioners to help ensure that St Peter remains the parish that you all love and great place to live.
Names of Proposers and Seconders
- Jonathan Colin Welsh
- William Joseph Dempsey
- Peter Joseph Lamy
- Peter John D’anger
- John Martin Refault
- Lyndsey Jane Capern
- Trevor Gavin Le Cappelain
- Robert Philip Surcouf
- Charles Quenault
- Christine Harris