This Is Guernsey

By Gemma Hockey

STATES members spent more than three hours debating their pay yesterday.

Ministers will be paid £39,000 a year following an amendment by Deputy Peter Roffey, instead of the £40,000 recommended in an independent review board’s report. The starting salary for a deputy will be £22,000.

The report’s findings were agreed upon, but with some distaste about the four-year fix. And some members admitted that it was an ‘embarrassing’ and emotive subject.

Deputy Leon Gallienne said he would rather not be part of a debate on States members’ pay.

‘I am not afraid to say that I am not comfortable speaking on a subject I do not think should be debated in the chamber,’ he said. ‘This is an impossible situation because all circumstances are different.’

He said the report had taken a step back in terms of bringing members’ pay into the 21st century. A cut of £160 was made to a deputy’s starting salary.

Deputy Bernard Flouquet said he found the whole debate embarrassing. ‘I find it strange and one of the most embarrassing things is knowing some members of the public are listening to us talk about what we think we are worth.’

Deputy Dave Jones said it was clear the whole process needed investigation.

‘I don’t know what the answer is but I am sure it is something the new Policy Council will have to look at,’ he said.

Deputy Scott Ogier was not happy with the prospect that States pay would be fixed for four years and that it would not move with RPI.

‘I don’t find anywhere in the report why it is that ordinary work costs of the States should undergo a pay cut in real terms, with no RPI rise in four years.’

He said he found it ‘most disagreeable’ to be discussing pay four weeks before the general election and Deputy John Gollop agreed.

‘If you want to keep the States as a membership of the independently wealthy and retired, then this is the way to go about it,’ said Deputy Ogier.

Deputy Stuart Falla said candidates should not be in it for the money.

‘States members’ pay is not an issue that is going to attract people. If anyone is coming into politics for money, then we are getting the wrong people in this House,’ he said.

Deputy Janine Le Sauvage said some candidates had to consider pay.

Deputy Charles Parkinson said the States might have to revisit the subject within four years.

Deputy Chris Brock was worried that the next House would request a 20% increase in pay in four years’ time as a result of the freeze.

‘I think the political fallout could be immense.’

Deputy Roffey agreed there could be big problems with future talks over pay.

Chief Minister Mike Torode urged members to vote in favour of the report.