First parish surgery off to a good start

Deputy Liam McKenna, left, douzenier Ollie Goddard and PC Alex Moore of thr Neighbourhood Police Team

A range of topics were discussed, with the focus on parochial engagement and young people on the Bridge, with PC Moore saying they were aware of three separate groups congregating there and were actively working on engagement activities with them.

The surgery, at the Douzaine Room, was a pilot of five to give parishioners a chance to raise issues that affect the parish and to for douzeniers to see what might be done to address them.

The first one was chaired by Ollie Goddard, who welcomed everyone and hoped that it would prove to be a useful forum, and PC Moore added that hearing local voices was essential.

Discussed
Mr Goddard said that other Vale parish issues were raised, including the state of the roads locally and housing as it particularly affects the parish and these were discussed by those present.

Mr Goddard said he was very grateful to the police for attending and he would be accompanying PC Moore on a couple of occasions as the officer conducted his neighbourhood policing rounds on the Bridge and surrounding areas.

Some island-wide matters were raised which provided Deputy McKenna an opportunity to share his views and States of Guernsey insights into them.

The meeting went down very well and ended just before 12pm when tea, coffee and biscuits were shared and many of those there said they were keen to attend the next surgery.

A further four have been scheduled – for 25th April, 16th May, 27th June and 25th July.