In putting myself forward as a candidate to be the next Connétable of Grouville I recognise the excellent work of my predecessors in developing the Parish infrastructure to a point where there are no major developments required in the immediate future. However, the process of government is changing and there is therefore a requirement for an evolutionary approach to ensuring that Grouville is properly represented in the States by the Connétable. I offer the following experience, views and suggestions on the issues facing Grouville:

  • The Role of the Connétable – The Connétable is the ‘Father of the Parish’; as such he represents the views of all Parishioners and is available, with his team, to resolve their needs and concerns. The Connétable is a member of the States; a reality agreed by the States two years ago as a part of the Reform of Government. He represents the people of the Parish and defends the interests of the Parish, directly, within the States.
  • Reform of Government – I have worked at Ministerial and Regional level in the UK and within the States system as a civil servant. I have also worked in the commercial world and introduced the Investors in People business development standard into Jersey.
  • The Municipality – We all identify with our Parish. Maintaining that identity and contact with government, through the Municipality is essential.
  • The Honorary Police – The character and social cohesion of the Parish is largely delivered through the sympathetic work of the Honorary Police, including the enforcement of law and order. Maintaining their work in the Parish on behalf of the Parish is essential.
  • Welfare v Roads – The current proposal to centralise welfare in St Helier and give the Parish financial responsibility for the upkeep of all roads is interesting. However, it is so fundamental to the future work of the Municipality that it needs very careful, thorough consideration. This is an issue that affects every Parishioner and everyone needs to have the opportunity to understand this before any irrevocable decision in the centre of government is agreed.
  • The Environment – Grouville is the first of the eastern country Parishes. We have an expectation that our green and pleasant land remains in that condition. This requires an understanding of both the reality and the requirement for resources to achieve this within the States. To have an ‘Agriculture Strategy’ accepted by the States, but with no funding to deliver it is a direct threat to Grouville (and all other Parishes) and must be addressed corporately and positively.
  • Beautiful Grouville – We all need to take a pride in our Parish and strive to keep it clean and tidy.
  • Developing Grouville’s Economy – The ability of Tourism businesses to maintain their entitlement to a ‘change of use’ must be maintained. If they cannot or do not wish to stay in the sector but to develop their property for other uses, that enhances the Parish’s ability to levy rates. This ‘change of use’ entitlement must be spread to agricultural businesses. In order that our environment is maintained and the threat of urban sprawl removed, future housing and commercial expansion should be confined to the existing footprints of the tourism and agricultural businesses seeking redevelopment permission.
  • Green Lanes - I would not support an expansion of the Green Lane system in the Parish as I believe that they cannot be policed effectively.
  • Grouville School parking – I fully support the construction of a school bus lay-by on Rue a Don and the purchase of the field immediately behind the school for additional parking. The safety of our children is paramount.
  • Bus Shelters – If we are to encourage people to use public transport, we should also make it more pleasant to use. Therefore we need more bus shelters constructed along Grouville Common, the Marais and wherever they can be sited to meet current planning requirements.
  • Sport and Leisure – Grouville and the Eastern Parishes have no publicly funded sports and leisure facilities. I will fight for these to be included in the new build of Le Rocquier School, for the benefit of all.
  • An Ageing Population – Like every Parish, Grouville has an ageing population. We must look at how best we can provide additional, affordable sheltered accommodation to meet their needs.
  • Communication – Grouville is well served by its officers and in particular by its administrative office. Much has been talked about on the subject of ‘E’ government and spreading information to everyone over the internet. This has to be the focus of improving communication within the Parish, improving our ability to reach out to all Parishioners. I would like to see Grouville take the lead in this area within the Island, to be a pilot for the aspirations of E government and to empower Parishioners in participating in the maintenance of our quality of life.