The Institute of Directors (IoD) welcomes the sentiments behind the action-orientated first statement by the President of the Policy & Resources Committee. The vision of achievable priorities, collaboration and transparency will, we believe, be a significant step towards addressing many of the issues this States needs to tackle.
Greater collaboration between the committees, focussing on key achievable aims, breaking down barriers are all actions that underline the President’s promise of action. As is the commitment from the various leads on issues such as digital connectivity, States property, civil service reform and our transport links to report back to the States within three months,
Our pre-election member survey highlighted physical and digital connectivity, education and the island’s relationship with the UK and the EU as high priority areas for this States to address. We are, therefore, pleased to see many of these policy areas highlighted in this first statement. The ability for the new States to get a policy agreed and enacted, resulting in fibre to all will be a litmus test.
We are delighted to see that Deputy Soulsby will lead a review of Guernsey’s structure of government. The IoD has been calling for such a review for some time and 70% of our members agree this is a priority for this political term. We hope to collaborate and engage proactively throughout this important project. The desire to empower the Douzaines is also welcome news, as a stronger mandate for the parish Douzainiers will enable the Assembly to focus on it delivering its key priorities.
Supporting our finance industry, increasing funding to Guernsey Finance, addressing the many challenges our tourist industry faces, and the interplay of both with our population regime is critical for the island’s economic and social prosperity. Decisive action is needed.
Finally, we look forward to hearing more about the proposed Guernsey investment body to be led by Deputy St Pier. The island is fortunate to have various investment portfolios which represent an opportunity for economic growth and ultimately the wellbeing of our island.
As ever, this States will be judged by its actions and not words and the messages so far are very encouraging.