FORMER Island Development Committee president Roland Ogier is back in the public eye as president of the National Trust of Guernsey. He has taken over from Michael Eades.

And he believes the trust is as relevant today as it has always been.

‘I was pleased and grateful to be elected. There was a certain amount of trepidation – I’ve been living a private life that might be compromised – but I feel I can contribute positively.’

Mr Ogier returned to Guernsey 20 years ago and was a States member between 1994 and 2000.

‘We should look to cooperate with other organisations, such as La Societe Guernesiaise and certainly the States, to help look after the island,’ he said.

‘Guernsey has an extraordinary tradition and past we can justifiably be proud of.’

He said the Folk Museum at Saumarez Park was indicative of different traditions,

such as horticulture and farming.

It is important to look at this past and how our predecessors handled changing situations, he added.

‘The idea is to cooperate with the States. By and large, it is aware of how important it is to protect our heritage,’ he said.

‘But long-term objectives can be lost in short-term projects and the National Trust is in a position to gently nudge the States to remind it.’

The trust has under way numerous projects, such as the housing of its costume collection.

‘The main project is to encourage an increase in awareness of all aspects of our heritage and to work to enhance that in many different ways.’

Mr Ogier’s family has roots in the island going back to the 16th century.

His father, Tom, was president of the IDC for many years.

Although not born in the island, he has been a member of the trust since returning.

His role with the IDC gave Mr Ogier an insight into planning and it is one element he wants to address.

‘What you can’t impose is absolutely rigid rules in something as complex as our

island community. I would look to encourage some degree of flexibility.’

He said there was a long tradition of people maintaining some degree of independence where they live, although areas of activity such as horticulture might not be

appreciated by neighbours and presented a difficult balance.

The division between the rural and urban area was ‘not entirely helpful, I’d look to encourage some discussion’.