A FORMER nurse and civil servant is to stand in the June election – becoming the first non-sitting States Member to officially declare for a Senatorial seat.
Bernard Place, a former JEP columnist, has held several senior healthcare roles, including being project director for a previous iteration of the hospital project.
Standing as an independent candidate, he would to take a collaborative approach to politics, adding that, if elected, he intends to play a leading role in Scrutiny rather than seek a ministerial position.
“I offer a different approach,” he said. “Too much of our debate focuses on promises rather than delivery. I am focused on practical reform – making the systems we rely on work better for Islanders.
“The cost of living is rising faster than incomes, housing is increasingly out of reach, and access to healthcare is under strain. At the same time, Islanders expect government to live within its means and deliver value for money. I share that expectation.
“I have seen how effective systems support people at every stage of life – and how confidence is lost when they do not. I am standing to help restore that confidence through clear, deliverable change.”
Mr Place said that, if elected, his core priorities would include tackling the cost-of-living crisis, housing and supporting healthcare.
“Work should provide security, and everyday life should be affordable”, he said. “Every policy should be tested against a simple question: does it reduce pressure on household budgets?”
Discussing housing, Mr Place said that Jersey should offer “practical pathways” for both renters and first-time buyers, while adding that health services are “under pressure” and the Island needs to “improve access, reduce waiting times, and strengthen care closer to home”.
“These are not separate problems,” he added. “They require a clear plan, careful use of resources, and a focus on outcomes that matter to Islanders.
“I am not ideological. I am focused on what works, and I am ready to work constructively with others to deliver practical solutions.”
Mr Place said that he would be publishing a series of articles on how the challenges facing Jersey can be met on his campaign website bernardplace2026.com
