Island takes steps towards ending discrimination for all
RACISM, sexism, homophobia and prejudice against people with disabilities are on their way to being outlawed in Guernsey, as deputies have strongly indicated they are ready for a paradigm shift in attitudes towards discrimination.
The debate on the anti-discrimination proposals will resume this morning, and the signs are that they will be overwhelmingly approved.
The public gallery of the States chamber was packed yesterday with excited campaigners, and the Bailiff warned them that if they continued to cheer and clap they would be removed.
States members did agree to tear up the suggested timescale and phased approach, so that the changes can be brought in faster.
Under the new schedule anti-discrimination regarding the grounds of disability, race, carer status, sexual orientation and religious belief should be enshrined in law by 2022.
Only age discrimination will have to wait longer.
When Employment & Social Security first announced its proposals last year it had a partisan battle on its hands, with the business community arguing against red tape and extra costs, but following compromise from both sides some common ground was found.
Presenting the latest plans, the president of Employment & Social Security, Deputy Michelle Le Clerc said stamping out racism and other prejudices was vital to the island’s reputation. She urged States members to open their eyes to the discrimination happening in Guernsey.
‘We need to embrace this legislation and the key role it will play in making Guernsey a fair, just and equal society.
‘We need to protect all members of our community from racism, prejudice and discrimination in its many forms.
‘I urge members today to show that we as a society are not willing to sit back and tolerate discrimination and prejudice, to show that Guernsey together really does mean everyone together, no one left behind, no one less important.’
ESS came up with a phased approach to the plans, but Deputy Charles Parkinson led the charge for a speeding up to achieve the goals in almost one hit.
He was successful with his amendment to bring the grounds of religious belief and sexual orientation into the first tranche of legislation.
‘This really should not be controversial stuff, to me you don’t need to do a lot of further work on whether people should be discriminated against because they’re Jewish or gay, the answer is no they shouldn’t, and moreover there’s no great cost or inconvenience in implementing this legislation.’
An idea from the States disability champion, Deputy Sarah Hansmann-Rouxel, to establish an Equality & Rights Advisory Committee at a cost of £40,000 to provide guidance and advice to small businesses was rejected.
