Deputy calls for an end to bullying among politicians

The debate about the problem broke out on Twitter, with former deputy Peter Sherbourne saying that deputies were pressured into voting certain ways during his time in the States, and ordinary people and female deputies were treated with contempt.

Emilie Yerby said she thought there was bullying taking place among deputies in the current Assembly.

‘The first step towards addressing it is acknowledging it,’ she said. ‘In a society of equals our best hope of stopping bullying is probably to withdraw support and approval from bullies, and let that have its consequences. But you can’t do that if we pretend the bullying isn’t even there in the first place.’

However, the States' most experienced member, Deputy Mary Lowe, said she had seen no evidence of bullying and she did not feel it was an old boys’ club.

‘I can only speak from first-hand experience Peter [Sherbourne],’ she said.

‘I’ve never been bullied or intimidated by anyone, male or female the last 24+ years in the States. If it still goes on as you state I certainly haven’t seen it. Perhaps I’m not as sensitive as some of my colleagues past/current.’

Deputy Neil Inder, when discussing Mr Sherbourne’s historical experience, said no one would put pressure on him in the States.

But Deputy Yerby said it was important to focus on preventing bullying, rather than saying it does not exist.

‘I do think there is bullying among deputies,’ she said.

‘I’m disappointed that Mary and Neil chose not to.’

She was concerned that it was difficult to deal with bullying in the States.

‘Given that there is no meaningful hierarchy or effective disciplinary mechanism, it is also difficult to protect each other from victimisation or hold each other accountable for bullying behaviour,’ she said.

The Code of Conduct panel aims to ensure that deputies conduct themselves in an appropriate manner. This includes having integrity, objectivities and accountability, as well as being honest and selfless. However, the panel can only act if a complaint is received. Investigations are under way to see if the panel could be more pro-active.

Deputy Yerby said she did not plan to take the matter further at this stage.