This Is Guernsey

Jenny Tasker

Elected to the States in September 2005 (By-election), Jenny seeks re-election to serve a four-year term and play a full part in elections of Ministers, Departments and Committees. My honesty, integrity and common sense do not allow promises to be made that are unachievable. I do listen to all arguments put forward for any proposal. Voting, however, should be organised electronically! Were that done, records of members’ voting would be available.

I guarantee to study all issues fully and read papers/documents, thus doing my best to understand matters being debated.

There are many areas on which I have strong views and have made them clear over the years:

* The need for modern fit for purpose facilities for staff and pupils in schools and for mental health care.

* The minimum wage and encouragement for business, go together to make Guernsey a better place to work. Providing entrepreneurs with space for industrial development is essential if the Island is to continue to be a vibrant economy with facilities to match.

* Housing and the role of private landlords in providing accommodation, remain issues.

* Maintain existing proposals for taxation and not introduce new ones without consultation. Bring Social Security and Income Tax collection together where efficiencies can be achieved.

* Support for all our Emergency Services.

* Ensure that accountability in all areas of the States is strengthened and the culture changed to ensure this.

* The independent work of the Public Accounts Committee has to be more readily accepted by States’ members and public servants.

* Environment’s operations require greater co-ordination.

* Agreement about waste disposal methods.

The Government Business Plan, a useful tool, looks forward, providing scope for proper planning in the long term for major projects, as well as encouraging Departments to work more collaboratively.