What was learnt at Guernsey Election Your Voice Your Vote events?

BBC News

2 days ago

Voters have been quizzing election candidates on their views during a series of 'Your Voice Your Vote' events hosted by BBC Guernsey.The events have seen 10 candidates each night present themselves in a 90 second pitch, then answer three audience questions in 45 seconds each.Housing, taxation, education, healthcare and the third sector have all been on the agenda so far, as well as questions over toxicity in the States and candidates' ability to compromise.After the pitches, questions and mingling with candidates, these voters told us what they thought.
The Austins are making voting a family affair, with Mum Kirstie, Dad Andre, Tanner and Bailey all keen to put their questions to candidates. Andre said: "What's most important is not leaving people behind. "Homelessness and inequality are really uncomfortable conversations that thankfully more people are starting to have, but I think if we want to get things done, people need to put their money where their mouth is. "If they don't, they'll hear about it this term as people will be on the streets."
Tanner, who is at school, said his priority was creating a better education system. "I feel like certain schools give you a one-up in life and everyone should have the opportunity to access those."When asked if he thought the candidates would deliver what he wanted, he said: "I think you can get a sense of where people are coming from and how confident they are in what they can do."So after tonight I'd have faith in a few people up there."
'Third sector carries Guernsey'
Bailey, 19, asked the candidates a question about how they would support the third sector.She said: "The third sector literally carries Guernsey, it does work that the government should do, and it does it for free."Some of them were very convincing, particularly the people who'd been involved in the third sector, others weren't because they spoke negatively about it."Kirstie said she was not passionate about one policy in particular, but wanted to see an Assembly that would "agree, and get stuff done".She said: "I was not convinced by the panel because some of them didn't even acknowledge the current toxicity within the States or more importantly, what they're going to do to hold themselves accountable so it doesn't happen in the next States."
Ben Langlois has come to two Your Voice Your Vote events so far to help him decide who to vote for.He said: "My election priorities are affordable housing and a change in the tax system to make it more progressive and less flat-rate."I thought it was really interesting. You come in and know certain candidates have got your vote and some don't, and it's the 'inbetweens' that you can ask questions to. My mind's been solidified. I've got three definites from tonight and a couple of maybes."
Susan and Ian Souter said they wanted to vote for candidates who would look at the future realistically, and inspire islanders to do the same.Susan said: "The harbour is essential. It's going to take up most of any savings the States has, but it's crucial, and I don't think they've done any major work in it for a long time. "But imagine if our harbour gives way! No thanks."Ian said, "What people standing can't seem to do is paint a picture of what Guernsey will be like in 10 years, a wonderful place where we all want to live. "There will be some painful decisions to be made, and if we're going to have pain, we want to understand what's at the end of the rainbow."Further events are being held until 5 June.