Debate over! End of term for Jersey's parliament

Jersey's parliament has sat together for the last time in its current form.

During their term in the Chamber, this crop of States Members lodged 411 propositions and debated 367 of them, 'most in the last 5 weeks, so it seems!', according to the Bailiff.

The Assembly just sat for six full days to finish all the public businesses before they went into recess.

Parliament is now paused until after the general election on 7 June.

The last propositions to be agreed include changes to the law that will mean better protection for animal welfare, the option of a second trial in the case of a hung jury, and measures to protect cash use. 

They voted against new gender-identity guidance for schools , and voted for a dedicated fund to maintain Jersey's public assets.

Prosecution for 'Jersey Lifts' drivers was also agreed, as well as a series of policy changes discouraging agricultural land from being used for solar panels.

In the last four years, Deputy Montfort Tadier has made the most speeches, hitting 300 on Friday, and finishing on 305.

The Bailiff, presiding over the final sitting, joked, that 'it sometimes feels like more! But it's 305.'

Deputy Jonathan Renouf asked the most 'oral questions'.

The Bailiff, Robert McRae, closed proceedings on Monday:

"Some of you are leaving the Chamber for the last time as elected members. Some of you will know that, and others won't know that.

"Although you, of course, have your differences politically, I think all members of this Chamber are united in their commitment to this island and the welfare of its people, which includes those who have come from other countries to make their home in our island."

The States is now in recess until June's election, as those standing begin their campaigning.

The new parliament will meet on 19 June to appoint the next Chief Minister.

Notable retirees include St Helier Constable Simon Crowcroft, longstanding Reform Jersey deputy Geoff Southern and former Chief Minister Kristina Moore.

The trio have a combined 68 years service to the Assembly.

As she steps down, Kristina Moore has called for people to embark on what she calls a 'fascinating' career:

"I know that there are many capable people with integrity and community values in the island. And I am calling on them to rise to the challenge.

"Nothing is certain in life and yes, politics can be tough, but what we face now as the world order shifts, is great uncertainty and challenge.

"This may sound scary, but is also fascinating and brings opportunity, particularly for an island like Jersey."

She concluded:

"It has been a huge honour to have represented you as your Deputy and Senator... I remain very grateful to the many people who have supported and encouraged me over the past 15 years and all that has been achieved.

"However, I feel that it is time for me to pursue some of my other interests, outside of politics."

The next States Assembly will have a different composition, with nine Senators elected on an island-wide basis returning to the benches, reversing their 2021 abolition.