Change could be end for douzaines

By Nigel Baudains

CONCERNS have been voiced that the restructuring of the douzaine system could threaten its future. Proposals going to the States at the end of the month include giving statutory powers to the Island Douzaine Council and reducing douzeniers’ term of office from six years to four.

Three parishes - St Martin’s, St Peter’s and Forest - are opposed to giving legal power to the council.

‘I would be very concerned for the long-term future of the douzaines if this went ahead,’ said St Martin’s senior constable John Sarre.

He said the role of the douzaines had been diminishing slowly since douzaine representatives were barred from the States.

‘The douzaines do play a very important part in parish life and they still have a lot to offer, though some people don’t seem to appreciate it,’ he said.

Mr Sarre supports reducing the term of office, which he believes could encourage more people to stand.

He said that while States departments were reluctant to consult with individual douzaines, it was important that this dialogue was maintained.

‘Who really wants this? Is it the States or the Island Douzaine Council?’ he said.

Torteval senior constable Dave Inglis said he was in favour of the majority of the proposals and his only concern was over funding.

‘The States is saying that we will not get any money for carrying out the work and while it is unclear how much it will cost, it will be more work for the constables issuing permits and the likes,’ he said.

That might not be an issue for the larger parishes, but he feared the smaller ones, such as the one he represents, might have to levy money from parishioners.

Mr Inglis did not see a problem with giving statutory rights to the council and said the douzaines should act as one body.

‘With the way things have changed, I think there is a level of despondency now,’ he said.

‘Things go out for consultation and before we have had the chance to respond they are passed in the States.’

Vale senior constable Colin Bond said the views of his parish had been incorporated into the States report and he did not wish to elaborate.