DEPUTY BERNARD FLOUQUET, the new Environment Minister, has rejected accusations of nepotism in his department. Roy Bisson, former political ally and ‘campaign manager’ for Deputy Flouquet’s attempt to become chief minister, has been given a non-States member role at the department.

‘There is no truth in allegations of cronyism,’ said Deputy Flouquet. He said that Mr Bisson, who lost his seat in last month’s general election, was one of seven candidates for the two seats.

The new department had its first meeting last Friday. The five political members chose two non-States members – who will not get a vote, but will receive an expense allowance for their time in meetings – to join them.

Former St Sampson’s douzaine representative Michelle Levrier, a sitting States member who also lost her seat at last month’s election, was the other selection.

‘The board has taken the two non-States members on for the abilities they can offer the Environment Department – they will be a good asset to this board,’ said Deputy Flouquet. ‘They are there purely for their ability.

‘I did not make the decision – that decision was made by the States members on the board. Seven individuals had applied and a consensus was reached. It certainly was not my decision.’

He added that the new department would be a steep learning curve for all members and that the two former States members had useful experience.

Ms Levrier served under Deputy Flouquet on the Housing Authority. Mr Bisson was a member of the Island Development Committee for four years until twelve months ago.

Mr Bisson admitted that he and Deputy Flouquet were good friends, but said he sought no

special treatment.

‘Quite a lot of States members, after the election, recognised that I had put environment as one of my leading policies in manifestos and leaflets and encouraged me even before the minister was elected to stand for a non-States member post in that department, which, after some reflection, I agreed to,’ he said.

‘I feel privileged to have been elected by the board and will do everything in my power to fulfil the role.’

Deputy Bisson added that he had been asked to stand long before Deputy Flouquet’s appointment as minister.

‘I did not look for any special treatment in any way,’ he said.

Deputy Eric Walters said he was unhappy at the way selection of members could be carried out.

‘No disrespect to them, but this brings up one of the most important anomalies in the change of the machinery of government. All appointments should come to the States for ratification. They shouldn’t be left to the whims of one department or one president.’

Deputy Walters, who failed to gain a departmental role in the new States, said he had no axe to grind with the successful candidates. ‘But we’re putting all the power in the hands of the individual committees.’

Each department in the new-look States can elect up to two non-voting, non-States members. They are not obliged to have them, but if chosen, they may serve the four-year term alongside States members and would receive £45 per half-day meeting.

Former Board of Industry president Peter Ferbrache is thought to be shortlisted for a non-States member position at the Commerce and Employment Department.