Weaving a new golden thread of engagement
DIRECT engagement between politicians and public is an area that has changed greatly since October’s election.
Without parish links, deputies have essentially become free agents, representing the island as a whole.
The golden thread between parishioners, the douzaine and the States representative has been snapped. With it has gone one of the best ways for islanders to catch the ear of ‘their’ deputies.
It is important for all parties to weave new threads and reconnect the elected with the electors.
The States knows this and Policy & Resources’ ‘Let’s take time to talk’ is part of the solution.
Islanders are encouraged to come along between 10am and noon on 12 December at the Visitor Information Centre to discuss issues one-on-one with members of the committee.
It’s an informal get-together, designed to help islanders engage with their government. The topic range is broad: ‘They can ask us about any issue relating to government. It’s an open forum.’
Depending on how many people turn up, the meetings could become regular.
In theory, the get-togethers are open to tens of thousands of islanders so if even a tiny fraction turn up it will be a very busy morning’s work.
For those islanders who make the effort it will no doubt be worth it. They will gain a keen insight into government.
Part of that might be an understanding that P&R do not have full control of government, only its purse strings.
But there is only so much that can be achieved in two hours, the answers will be private and the subjects might be niche.
Another idea for government engagement would be ‘green paper’ public meetings with a specific agenda.
Deputies would not need to argue a fixed position. A third party could moderate and civil servants present some general facts to prime the discussion before opening the floor to public and politicians.
Subjects could include how to fund the long-term care system properly, services versus taxes and keeping up the value of benefits and pensions.
The public would gain an understanding of the complexity of such topics while deputies could benefit from a broader input of ideas.