St Martin

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M. Le Connétable and Parishioners of St Martin

1.  My name is Philip Ozouf.
   
   
2. In 15 days you will choose 6 to represent you and the Island for the next 6 years.
   
   
3. 9 years ago I was elected to the States, became a Senator 6 years ago and for the last 3 years I have discharged the duties as Minister for Economic Development.
   
   
4. This is the first election since ministerial government was introduced and therefore this election will inevitably be more challenging for those candidates who are States Members and especially Ministers.
   
   
5. This is quite appropriate.
   
   
6. Most candidates have declared their aspiration if elected to serve as Ministers.
   
   
7. Thats also quite realistic as most Ministerial positions come from the Senatorial benches.
   
   
8. The Senators or aspiring Ministers that you will elect will be the Political leaders of Jersey.
   
   
9. Leading departments, inviting the States to approve policies, making orders and Ministerial Decisions – responsible for millions of pounds of tax payers money.
   
   
10. The external pressures from beyond our shores also requires Jersey Ministers to often represent the Island internationally whether at Westminster, Brussels or further afield.
    
    
11. The existing Ministers and the new Ministers you elect will be called upon to help steer the Island over the next 3 years – a world in which is changing every rapidly with the global economic turmoil unfolding on our television screens as we speak quite apart from dealing with the pressures of international rising commodity – especially oil and food prices.
    
    
12. 6 years ago I set out my vision and specific policies – I was immensely honoured that the Parishioners of St Martin positioned me at the top of the Senatorial list
    
    
13. I have taken that responsibility sincerely and seriously and worked hard to deliver on the promises that I made.
    
    
14. I introduced the Jersey Competition Regulatory Authority and a Competition Law banning cartels and pricefixing and at last dealing with unfair local price rises in telecoms, transport and areas such as Lawyer scale fees.
    
    
15. I pledged to do something about unfair rates and proposed the Island wide commercial rate working with the Constables. 
    
    
16. These are two examples where I have tried to make a positivebeneficial difference to the lives of all Islanders including the Parishioners of St Martin.
    
    
17. My politics are constructive and whilst I have been Economic Development Ministers for the last 3 years therefore focusing on the economy – are much more than economic.
    
    
18. My vision for Jersey
    1. is an island where everyone has the opportunity and encouragement to reach their full potential
    2. a caring Island which supports and gives to those who need it
    3. an Island which respects our senior citizens and young people
    4. and an Island which is proud of itself as it is cultural diverse.
       
       
19. 3 minutes is not nearly enough to explain my policies and vision – quite apart from the challenges I think we face.
    
    
20. My website www.ozouf.je contains my manifesto and policies and if you would like to talk and question me personally about any concerns you have – I am one of those politicians that answers my phone and answers e-mails – please I will be delighted to listen and talk to you.
    
    
21. The Battle of Flower’s future is now secure.
    
    
22. More than that we have vibrant new events such as the Ice Rink at Christmas for families and tonight the opening of the new Branchage Film Festival.
    
    
23. I have put a real new focus on skills.
    
    
24. Ladies and Gentlemen these things don’t happen by accident.
    
25. I am not one of those politicians you only hear from at election time.
    
    
26. I hope I have earnt a reputation for getting things done: efficiency, sound thinking and hard work.
    
    
27. I also believe in constructive politics. 
    
    
28. My vision has always been long term.
    
    
29. I am not afraid of reform, change or from taking – where necessary - tough decisions.
    
    
30. If you want a candidate who has worked hard for Jersey with leadership, ability and a proven track record to get things done, then please consider me for one of your votes.