CHIEF Minister Kristina Moore has said she is “disappointed” following the resignation of Infrastructure Minister Tom Binet, who has lodged a vote of no confidence against her.
Deputy Kristina Moore, who will face a vote on 16 January, described Deputy Binet as “a driven and committed Jerseyman” but also emphasised the need for compromise among members of a coalition government.
In a strongly worded report outlining his reasons for bringing the motion, Deputy Binet criticised Deputy Moore’s style and quality of leadership and said the last 18 months had been a “depressing affair for many close to the centre of power”.
The Deputy confirmed that he would stand for Chief Minister if he won the motion.
In a statement released by the government, Deputy Moore said: “The new year is always a good time to start afresh and whilst the Council of Ministers is disappointed to receive the resignation of Deputy Tom Binet, we look forward to rebuilding the team after the vote of no confidence.
“Deputy Tom Binet is a driven and committed Jerseyman. I nominated him as Minister for Infrastructure because we need to get homes built and essential infrastructure renewed. However, we are also in a large coalition government and compromise is required.
“We are a diverse team around the table because we believe in listening and playing to people’s strengths.”
Deputy Moore said ministerial colleagues had tried their best to work with Deputy Binet in the belief that delivering the hospital project was a priority for the Islanders.
“Our focus remains on [the Hospital project], along with investing in our health and education services, supporting Islanders through these challenging times, and delivering on our priorities: housing, the cost of living, and recruitment and retention, so that families can thrive in our strong island community,” she said.
The Chief Minister confirmed she would make a nomination to ask the Assembly to appoint a new Minister for Infrastructure. She also announced that Constable Marcus Troy had been immediately appointed as Assistant Health Minister following the resignation of Deputy Rose Binet, one of those who backed the vote of no confidence brought by her brother.
