THE president of the Guernsey Chamber of Commerce has pledged to make population his priority. Paul Luxon (pictured), who became head of the organisation in April, said a solution to the problem needed to be found.
Chamber has formed 10 subgroups to focus on what it sees as key issues facing Guernsey, including transport, waste reduction, tourism, retail and tax. Mr Luxon is in charge of the population committee – a subject that he describes as ‘massively complex’.
‘I’m very interested in how our island works and believe that this is an absolutely critical area. At the moment the island is pretty full. We have virtually no unemployment and an ageing population.
‘We’re going to have a scenario where fewer people are working and more people are dependent on that revenue. It doesn’t take a genius to realise that if it isn’t dealt with in five, 10, 15 or 20 years’ time, then future generations will have the problem bequeathed upon them by us.
‘I want to lead Chamber to see if we can make some impact on finding some solutions. I’m not scaremongering as solutions will be found, but we need a strategy.’
The Guernsey Chamber of Commerce is meeting the British and Jersey chambers so that members can learn from each other’s experiences and identify any mutually beneficial areas.
The business community and politicians must work together now more than ever to make sure Guernsey’s economic success is sustained for the long term, said Mr Luxon.
‘Since the election we’ve been meeting the new ministers and departments to open up communication links on the major issues.
‘The island is in good condition. We have a good economy, but we need to look forward together towards the long-term horizon.’
Chamber’s big message was about applying both common sense and collective responsibility, he said.
‘Whether it’s Chamber, politicians or the media, we need to come up with the best solution rather than just criticising each other all the time.
‘We don’t have all the answers for all these problems, but we are happy to engage with the public and government to try to find a solution.
‘We’re here to try to foster a successful economic business environment for the long-term benefit of the community.’
Article posted on 1st July, 2008 - 2.30pm
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One Article Comment
I am interested in knowing what the chamber will do for retail. We are in danger of losing our individuality as a town as more and more UK high street retailers flood the Island. In the meantime extortionate rents and business taxes mean that independent retailers are being pushed out. I strongly believe that the states should be supporting new businesses and giving people the opportunity to develop small independent businesses