Help us save money, States asks Vale parishioners

Tue 04 Jul 2023

Vale parishioners are being asked to help the States of Guernsey save money by suggesting what public services could be dropped or by coming up with other money saving ideas. In particular, government is looking for thoughts on generating new or increased income; restructuring services, including through outsourcing or procuring them differently; and by reducing, stopping or restricting access to services such as through means testing.

The request is part of an initiative by Policy and Resources to plug a financial "black hole" in States' finances that it says could rise to £100m per year by 2040. "The shape of the Bailiwick's population is changing. With more people living longer and having fewer children, demand for public services, particularly health services, is rising rapidly. This is one of the biggest challenges we face and other jurisdictions are also taking extraordinary steps to counter similar trends," it says.

As a result, officials have written to the island douzaines encouraging them to ask parishioners to share their thoughts on how money could be saved and possible future tax rises reduced by coming up with ideas on reducing the cost of the public sector.

The way to have your say is by completing an online survey that can be accessed here – https://www.gov.gg/costreductionpublicsurvey

The link also provides more information about the need for economies and what's making running the island become more expensive.

A Reducing the Cost of Public Services Sub-Committee has been formed to identify recurring cost reductions of at least £10m - £16m per annum within five years, says P&R, which will take recommendations to the States Assembly in 2024.

The survey is available until Friday 14 July. You can also submit your suggestions by post by writing to:

Reducing the Cost of Public Services Sub-Committee
Sir Charles Frossard House
La Charroterie
St Peter Port
GY1 1FH

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