Jersey’s Games association against cuts

Jersey’s Games association against cuts

In a working group report, entitled ‘Future of the Games’, several points were made about the growth of the Games, which take place for the tenth time next week in Guernsey.The event has grown from 700 competitors at the inaugural Games in 1987 to almost 2,200 this year.Derek Bernard, chairman of the IGAJ said the association disagreed most strongly with some of the recommendations.’We are opposing the restrictions on the size of the Games and we dispute the perception that the Island Games are getting too big and causing problems,’ he said.’In fact we say the Island Games are highly successful and becoming more so and there is not a lack of interest from islands wishing to bid for hosting them.’We say as strongly and persuasively as we can that the size should be determined by the island that is hosting the Games and their ability to do so.’The size of the Island Games is not a problem but a sign of success.

The opportunity for people in our community to be able to participate in a major international event is something that should be opened to as many as possible, rather than restricted.’These are good people who see it differently from us – we do not in any way doubt their sincerity or good intentions.’The working group consisted of past, present and future host island organising committee chairman and representatives and they were asked to present a report to the IGA executive with recommendations in time for the 2007 Games.

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