Women in Public Life has launched a Jurat Election Information Hub to help make the process of selecting a Jurat of the Royal Court more accessible to the public and encourage more Islanders to consider standing for election in the future.
The States of Election was due to meet on Wednesday 27th January 2021 to replace Jurat David Grut who has retired. Note: this meeting has been postponed as a result of the recent lockdown.
Islanders can use the Hub to find out about the backgrounds of the candidates and plan how to listen in to the election when it is rescheduled. There is also a guide to the election process which explains who the 101 members of the States of Election are and how they select a new Jurat.
Shelaine Green, Chair of Women in Public Life said:
“Each Jurat election holds great significance for the Island. Deputies are only elected for a four-year term whereas Jurats may stay in post until the age of 72. Being elected as a Jurat is the highest honour Guernsey can bestow on one of its residents.
“We’ve always provided detailed information about the role of Jurat on our website as part of our mission to inspire and support the women of Guernsey to stand for public office. But we’ve noticed it is also being used by people generally – Guernsey folk are understandably curious about how our unusual and historic jury system works.
“So when we saw a Jurat election coming up at the end of the month, we contacted the candidates to ask about their backgrounds. With their kind assistance, their biographies and CVs are now up on our website. We’ve also included an explanation of how the States of Election goes about making its choice.
“Even though the public doesn’t elect Jurats directly, we hope the Information Hub will help islanders feel more involved in the important decision that will be made on 27th January – and perhaps consider standing themselves one day”.
To access the Jurat Election Information Hub, click here.
