Emergency powers should be revoked as soon as possible

Before I make my comments I wish to make it known that I have lived in Guernsey all my life and my intentions are solely to benefit the island rather than any personal interests.

It is widely acknowledged that politicians take hard decisions and that those decisions change people’s lives. Therefore it should not come as a surprise when groups within the community are critical of those decisions, and in a democratic society they should have the right to openly challenge them.

As the government is meant to represent the whole community, I would expect these challenges to be met in a more constructive manner and by answering the pertinent points raised rather than looking to discredit the individuals’ background.

Guernsey’s success over the years has been the way it has innovated through crises, engaged with the outside world, and been seen internationally as a centre of excellence. Underpinning this has been a supportive government and the key basic building blocks of a democratic society which include freedom of speech, movement and choice.

Therefore when I and others see our freedoms being eroded and Guernsey closing in on itself, alarm bells start ringing and it seems highly relevant and fair to have these debates in public rather than only in private conversations.

We cannot afford to continue with ‘Fortress Guernsey’ and therefore however hard it may be our community must engage with a plan and a roadmap to ensure the island’s continuing success.

Guernsey must not lose its basic principles and freedoms it has thrived upon and the emergency powers now in place should be revoked at the earliest opportunity.

We look forward to hearing the CCA’s plans in this week’s briefings, particularly in relation to restoring normal government and a roadmap for the island’s future.

IAN ROBINSON.