Following discussions with our members and other key organisations, we issued the below statement in response to some of the comments made by Deputy Dave Mahoney in the recent Guernsey Press Kiosk podcast.
Ahead of the upcoming election, Chamber will be focusing on highlighting the qualities and behaviours we believe are important for candidates standing for the Guernsey States, particularly in the context of a consensus government. Fundamentally, we believe professionalism, respect, and good governance should guide our future leaders.
Alongside the Guernsey International Business Association (GIBA) and Institute of Directors (IoD) we issued the following statement.
We were shocked and disappointed by the recent comments made by Deputy Dave Mahoney with regards to dealing with civil servants and fellow States members on the recent Guernsey Press ‘kiosk podcast’.
While robust discussions are sometimes necessary in the boardroom when there are differing views, personal attacks and unkind remarks have no place in any professional business environment.
President of Chamber of Commerce, Stephen Rouxel, Chair of GIBA, Paul Sykes, and Chair of the IOD Glen Tonks, stated:
There is absolutely no situation in which it is acceptable for any individual to refer to fellow directors or attendees at a meeting in a demeaning way. Such behaviour is directly at odds with the principles and provisions of business orientated governance codes such as Financial Reporting Council’s Code of Corporate Governance and the States own Code of Conduct.
We strongly urge all States Deputies to recognise the critical importance of setting the correct tone from the top, adhering to the principles of good governance, and ensuring that their conduct reflects those standards.
“We challenge this type of language and behaviour, as it undermines the professional and collegiate atmosphere necessary for effective governance. We stand for and encourage an environment where future political candidates and civil servants can step forward with the expectation of fair and respectful treatment, free from demeaning comments and unprofessional conduct.”
As we come into election year, we will be focusing on key strategic priorities such as housing, tax reform, and other pressing issues.
Our goal is to work closely with our members to ensure their voices are heard, ensuring that prospective political candidates in the 2025 election are aware of the concerns and perspectives of the business community.
To have your say and stay up to date on the priorities ahead of the election, sign up to our newsletter or email office@guernseychamber.com
