Reprimanded Guernsey Deputy criticises 'absurd' length of disciplinary process

Friday, 25 October 2024 12:10

Deputy Gavin St Pier has been defending the right to free speech in the States Assembly, as he responds to his reprimand.

Deputies unanimously agreed on Wednesday (23 October) that Deputy Gavin St Pier breached the States Code of Conduct when he criticised local paediatrician Sandie Bohin during a speech in April 2022.

During debate, some in the house called for Deputy St Pier to apologise or stand down.

Following this, the politician released a statement criticising the disciplinary process.

He said the Assembly had missed the opportunity to apologise to traumatised families, and he will continue to air the issues of those that he feels need political representation.

“The process dragged on for two and a half years, which was absurd.

Each time the story is told, more individuals have come to me with their own families’ concerning experiences.

We all know there is an inherent imbalance in the relationship between patients and their medical practitioners, which prevents many people speaking out.

I have been elected to represent the community and that includes giving a voice to the voiceless, which I will continue to do so long as I serve in this role.”