More than 50 sign up for seven-week election course

The course, which will take place weekly, starting this Thursday, already has 53 people signed up. It is hoped that it will give people better understanding of what the job role entails.

‘I’m very pleased with the numbers and it’s great that the marketing has worked to reach people thinking of standing,’ said States Assembly & Constitution Committee president Carl Meerveld.

‘The purpose is for people to get a better understanding of the role of deputy, what you can and can’t do as deputy, the expectations of the role, and how to perform optimally.

‘The course is not designed for existing deputies, as they will have the knowledge from performing the duty of deputy for the past term, really it is designed for new candidates to allow them to make an informed decision whether they want to stand.’

Seven sessions are scheduled to take place, educating prospective candidates on how the government works and what it is like to be a deputy.

The committee received criticism when it revealed that attendance would be recorded at each session and published if the individual stood for election.

‘Publishing attendance is not to name and shame people, it’s to let the public know who has gone above and beyond to learn how to be an effective deputy,’ said Deputy Meerveld.

‘The information will only be published if the person goes on to stand, and it will indicate to voters that they are serious about the role.’

Thursday’s session starts off the course with a session called ‘being a States member’.

Two members of the current assembly will speak about their day-to-day life as a deputy, detailing their experiences and the realities of the role, while balancing personal commitments and family life. All sessions will be held weekly at St Martin’s Community Centre, apart from one which will take place in the States chamber.

• More information can be found at www.election2025.gg.