THE leader of political party Reform Jersey has confirmed he is to stand in June’s general election – with tackling the Island’s housing crisis among his priorities.
Senator Sam Mézec will stand as Deputy in the St Helier South district – becoming the party’s third confirmed candidate.
The 31-year-old, who was first elected as a St Helier Deputy in 2014 before successfully standing for one of eight Senatorial seats in 2018, said: ‘This election comes at a crucial moment for Jersey as we move on from the pandemic.
‘Voters will have an opportunity to shape the government agenda, which will determine how we get Jersey back on its feet.
‘I strongly believe that we should not simply return to business as usual, but we should aim to resolve many of the problems Jersey has been facing, which successive governments have failed to address.’
Reform Jersey have said that the main priorities for the next government should be to create a more equal society, tackle the housing crisis, and restore government accountability.
Senator Mézec added: ‘People in St Helier are deeply concerned by the lack of action there has been to resolve the housing crisis.
‘There are efforts to build more and more homes in town, but little is being done to ensure these are genuinely affordable and that they aren’t simply bought by investors to rent out at extortionate prices.
‘Reform Jersey will be proposing a housing crisis action plan, to be implemented as a matter of urgency by the new government.
‘As part of this, we will be proposing that the proposed developments on the Waterfront and South Hill are remodelled to deliver more affordable housing.
‘Even before the pandemic hit, Jersey had faced years of growing inequality.
‘With the added challenges of Brexit, climate change and the effects of the war in Ukraine, many Islanders are extremely concerned about the increasing cost of living.
‘The current government’s response to the housing crisis has been woeful. We need a government which will work to improve life for all Islanders.’
Senator Mézec said Reform Jersey had much more to achieve.
‘Reform Jersey has made an impact with just five Members of the States Assembly, who have worked collaboratively to deliver our election promises.
‘We have proved our effectiveness by reducing the cost of seeing a GP, reforming social housing rents and promoting more affordable public transport.
‘But there is much more we could achieve with more Reform Jersey States Members.
‘I am really excited to be leading a diverse and experienced team of candidates, who will hit the ground running and make a difference from day one if they are elected.’
The new St Helier South district covers the Waterfront, the main shopping areas and Havre des Pas.
