Vote.je’s new offering to Islanders thinking about standing for election continues this Wednesday – 4 February – with a session providing introductions from Senior Officers covering: 

  • How the Government of Jersey works  
  • The role of the States Employment Board 
  • The Government Plan (Budget) 
  • The Common Strategic Policy 
  • Public Finances Law 
  • Island Statistics  
  • The Island Plan 
  • The Planning Process 

The first session of the course made a strong start on Wednesday 28 January. 31 prospective election candidates joined the course to understand the electoral process and gain insights into what to expected if they are successfully elected to the States Assembly in Jersey’s next election on Sunday 7 June. 

Attendees were warmly welcomed by Presiding Officer of the States Assembly – the Bailiff of Jersey, Robert MacRae. The Bailiff was keen to offer his encouragement to the prospective candidates, sharing his perspective on presiding over the States Assembly, answering many questions about the role and emphasising the opportunity elected Members have to make a real difference to the Island.  

Lisa Hart – Greffier of the States, and William Millow – Deputy Greffier of the States then led attendees through an introduction of many key aspects of the work that States Members undertake, including: 

  • the different roles that elected Members are able to take on and how the appointments process works; 
  • how the States Assembly can change and make new laws; and 
  • the support available to Members. 

The course is being run in the States Chamber to give attendees the opportunity to experience the working environment of elected Members. Online attendance is also available on request to those who cannot join in person. 

Jenny O’Brien, Head of Digital and Public Engagement at the States Greffe, said: ‘It’s the first time we’ve ever offered a course to potential election candidates and it’s exciting to see so many people make the most of the opportunity. This initiative is one of the final elements of the ‘Plan To Stand’ campaign which we launched in June 2024 to encourage Islanders to start their preparations early to stand for election. It’s completely optional whether or not to attend. If you’ve missed this first session, you can still join any of the following sessions.’ 

Anyone interested in registering to attend the course can do so on Vote.je.