'Practised, active listener' is new jurat
A RETIRED doctor described as moderate, unassuming and a practised, active listener, was elected jurat by the States of Election this morning.
Simon Bodkin succeeded in a vote against Amanda Jane St Pier, who was nominated by Deputy Peter Roffey and seconded by Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez.
Dr Bodkin's proposer Steve Falla said that as a GP he had played a role in Guernsey's community for more than 30 years, having first had a connection with the island when his father came her as a radiotherapist.
His affection and connection with the island never diminished and were cemented when he was appointed a GP with the Health Care Group.
He recently retired as a GP but had continued to work at the practice as an associate in busy periods.
If appointed jurat, he would retire from his practicing role, said Deputy Falla.
During his time at the practice he had been involved in issues of governance and matters involving negotiation and these were qualities that equipped him well for the jurat's role.
Seconder Jonathan Le Tocq said Dr Bodkin had come into contact with a wide range of islanders from different walks of Guernsey society and had to relate to people from a variety of backgrounds, often a low points in their lives.
He was a practised, active listener who had supported people in areas beyond just the medical, since they often required support in social, welfare, relational or housing issues.
A colleague had described him as 'a person of quiet resilience, committed to do his best for the patient and even in the most stressful of circumstances, unflappable.'
Another had said how he readily gave his opinion, but it was clear that it had come after much thought and consideration.
He was moderate, unassuming, and neither drive by ideology nor ambition.
Dr Bodkin won the secret ballot by 66 votes to 27.
