Scrutiny has carved a niche

The Scrutiny Committee Milk Law review panel sits at the Peninsula Hotel.

IT STARTED with a blank sheet of paper four years ago. But according to members of Scrutiny, the committee has managed to establish its place in government.

The States yesterday approved the committee’s performance report. Scrutiny chairwoman Jean Pritchard said establishing something that was quite different in government had been tough.

‘I think it’s worked despite all the problems over the lack of resources in the beginning. Over time, we’ve done well in setting the foundations,’ said Deputy Pritchard, pictured right. Former Scrutiny member Richard Cox said he was more than glad the committee was receiving greater recognition.

But he warned of the need for more staff for it to do its work in public – such as with the public hearings on the milk review.

Deputy Hunter Adam has been a member since March 2007.

He said it had given him a different perspective on things and he urged people coming into the States to join.

Another member, Deputy Barry Brehaut, praised the work of Deputy Pritchard and the staff – something echoed by many who spoke in the debate.

Deputy Geoff Mahy said that all the committees had made a positive contribution to the States.

Deputy Rhoderick Matthews stressed the need to resource the committees properly.

Scrutiny’s review of staff number limitation, which had led to that policy being scrapped, was particularly welcomed by Deputy Peter Roffey.

‘This makes such a huge difference to service delivery.’

The committee’s deputy chairwoman, Deputy Sam Maindonald, said it had started started with a blank sheet of paper and that it was important to build the confidence and trust of others.

Staff members and politicians are now willing to go to Scrutiny and ask questions, she said.

Deputy Brian de Jersey, another Scrutiny member, said that the committee had a good leader and good team players.

Treasury minister Lyndon Trott was cut short as he attempted to use the debate to paint a positive financial picture for the island.

To loud murmurings, he said that ETI growth in 2007 was more than 6% in real terms, but he stood down after concerns were raised that it was outside the scope of the debate.