Guernsey's First Female President Strengthens Ties with Jersey in Landmark Visit
Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, the first female Policy and Resources President of Guernsey, recently spoke to Jersey's business community about strengthening ties between the islands. During her visit, she also attended a debate in Jersey's States Assembly on abortion legislation, where lawmakers voted to permit terminations up to nearly 22 weeks of pregnancy.
Her discussions covered shared challenges, from housing shortages to transport and economic growth. Alongside policy talks, she shared personal insights—including her preference for Guernsey cows over Jersey's and a playful rivalry in touch rugby between the two islands.
Deputy de Sausmarez began her visit by addressing Jersey's business leaders, focusing on collaboration in key areas. She highlighted housing, transport, and education as pressing issues for both islands. Economic growth and better connectivity were also on the agenda, with a call for joint solutions.
During her time at the States Assembly, she observed a debate on abortion law. Jersey's lawmakers voted to allow terminations on request for pregnancies under almost 22 weeks. No further details were provided on how this compared to Guernsey's existing regulations.
Beyond policy, the deputy revealed lighter aspects of her personality. She admitted to never owning a watch and having no background in finance. A self-described supporter of Jersey Zoo—thanks to her family's fondness for it—she also confessed to a sporting rivalry. While Guernsey and Jersey compete fiercely in touch rugby, she kept her loyalties unclear.
Her curiosity extended to local traditions, too. At one point, she asked listeners why Jersey fishermen traditionally wear oilskins rather than jerseys—a question that sparked conversation among attendees.
The visit underscored both the serious and the personal sides of inter-island relations. Deputy de Sausmarez left with a clearer picture of Jersey's legislative and economic landscape, while also sharing her own quirks and preferences. Future collaboration between the two islands may now build on these discussions, from policy reforms to cultural exchanges.
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