The Institute of Directors (IoD) welcomes the sentiments behind the action-orientated first statement by the President of the Policy & Resources Committee. The vision of achievable priorities, collaboration and transparency will, they believe, be a significant step towards addressing many of the issues this States needs to tackle.
The IoD believes that greater collaboration between the committees, focussing on key achievable aims and breaking down barriers are all actions that underline the President’s promise of action. As is the commitment from the various leads on issues such as digital connectivity, States property, civil service reform and the transport links, to report back to the States within three months.
The IoD pre-election member survey highlighted physical and digital connectivity, education and the island’s relationship with the UK and the EU as high priority areas for this States to address. The IoD, therefore, is pleased to see many of these policy areas highlighted in this first statement. The ability for the new States to get a policy agreed and enacted, resulting in fibre to all will be a litmus test.
The IoD are delighted to see that Deputy Soulsby will lead a review of Guernsey’s structure of government. The IoD has been calling for such a review for some time and 70% of their members agree this is a priority for this political term. The IoD hopes to collaborate and engage proactively throughout this important project. The desire to empower the Douzaines is also welcome news to the IoD, as a stronger mandate for the parish Douzainiers will enable the Assembly to focus on it delivering its key priorities.
Supporting the finance industry, increasing funding to Guernsey Finance, addressing the many challenges the tourist industry faces, and the interplay of both with the population regime is critical for the island’s economic and social prosperity. The IoD believes that decisive action is needed.
Finally, the IoD looks forward to hearing more about the proposed Guernsey investment body to be led by Deputy St Pier. The island is fortunate to have various investment portfolios which represent an opportunity for economic growth and ultimately the wellbeing of the island.
The IoD finishes by saying that as ever, the States will be judged by its actions and not words; the messages so far are very encouraging.
