Dr Downing was nominated by Deputy Mark Helyar and seconded by Deputy Adrian Gabriel to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Steven Morris.
Also nominated were photographer John Fitzgerald, proposed by Deputy Jayne Ozanne and seconded by Deputy Steve Falla, and former rugby development officer and president of the Child, Youth, and Community Tribunal Steven Melbourne MBE, who was proposed by Deputy Sally Rochester and seconded by Deputy Jennifer Strachan.
Deputies Helyar and Gabriel said that they knew Dr Downing well since he had been their family physician.
Deputy Helyar said that what marked him out as an outstanding candidate for the office was not only nearly four decades of service to primary care in the island, but also his particular blend of medical, forensic and legal expertise.
As well as a Master’s degree in forensic medicine and bioethics, he has a Master of Law in medical law.
Dr Downing held the Bailiwick’s lead forensic position for 20 years from 2004 and in that capacity he was called upon to provide medical and psychological care to detainees in custody, attend unexpected deaths and conduct forensic examinations in cases of sexual assault and other serious incidents.
‘Few candidates for jurat will have had to weigh clinical findings, human vulnerability and evidential standards together so often or under such pressure, as he has done in that role,’ said Deputy Helyar.
‘It is precisely this sort of grounded medico-legal judgement which is invaluable to the Royal Court when it considers complex factual disputes and sensitive criminal matters.’
Deputy Gabriel added that Dr Downing had been called upon to make balanced, careful and ethically informed decisions in his professional life and these qualities would translate directly to the responsibilities of a jurat.
‘Dr Downing has earned the confidence of colleagues and patients alike, not only for his medical knowledge, but also for his integrity, his fairness and compassion.’
The first ballot ended with Dr Downing and Mr Fitzgerald tied on 29 votes each. Mr Melbourne, with 25 votes, was eliminated pending a second vote, which led to a second vote where Dr Downing polled 43 votes and Mr Fitzgerald 40. There was one spoiled paper in each ballot.
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