The people's politician, Deputy Dave Jones, dies
MAN of the people Deputy Dave Jones – a politician 'never afraid to speak his mind' and who always 'fought for the underdog' – has died following a long battle with ill health.
Tributes streamed in for the Vale deputy and former Housing minister, who served the States for 16 years, with friends and colleagues describing his bravery and dignity in his final months, his strong beliefs throughout, and his wicked sense of humour.
He passed away at home with his family yesterday morning, aged 66, and the Bailiff and Lt-Governor were among those who joined friends and colleagues in paying tribute to Deputy Jones' tireless work for Guernsey.
One of his closest friends was Deputy Barry Paint, who had known him long before they stepped into politics.
'He was an excellent politician and friend. When my daughter died two years ago he helped me endlessly,' he said. 'I could not wish for a better friend.'
Another paying tribute, Vale colleague Deputy Matt Fallaize said the former Housing minister had managed to do what was almost impossible for politicians to achieve and won an almost permanent seat in the States.
'So many people had such faith in him and would turn up to vote for him. It is a sign of how highly people thought of him.'
