We don’t have to build back the same

Our losses have been a tragedy. The disruption extreme. The cost staggering. But collectively, we have confronted the Covid-19 crisis – navigating the stormy waters of this pandemic with Guernsey Together as our compass. We are, hopefully, at the end of the beginning of the first phase of this horrendous pandemic as a result.

As we emerge cautiously from the shadow of Covid-19 into the warm glow of late spring sunshine, we are now on the long road to recovery from the individual and collective impact of the Covid-19 emergency. Rebuilding shattered lives and our economy is the next part of the challenge. Our individual and community wellbeing depends on it. It won’t be easy. Be in no doubt that there will be bumps along the way, with some that could shake us once again to the core.

But there is an opportunity to build back better.

Let’s capitalise on the renewed bonds that bind us which have strengthened during lockdown. The generosity, kindness and intelligence of islanders are a force to be harnessed for the collective good.

New ways of working have been established, which for some have been just as productive while striking a better work-life balance. Meanwhile, many will miss the quietness of the roads as the island gets back to work. Nor has climate change or Brexit gone away.

What too of rich and poor? The inequality gap will have impacted many islanders experience of the past few months, and their hopes and fears for the future. That will need careful consideration. The good news is that we don’t have to build back the same. Without being pie-in-the-sky about it, the development of the island’s recovery strategy from the pandemic offers the potential of a route map ahead for the benefit of Guernsey. Belief in ourselves, along with potentially big, bold decisions, bravery and money could be worth it for our tomorrow. The challenge for those drawing up the strategy will be carrying that Guernsey Together spirit forward to achieve the build back better objective.

A plan of resonating clarity offering concrete steps to that brighter future could just do that.