Carolyn Labey, member of an extended family who own large tracts of Grouville (and who have done so for as long as one can remember). After working in Trust develops an interest in 'local' politics and stands for Deputy, uncontested, twice. Hardly surprising perhaps given the circumstances. Within the early days of ministerial government and post Clothier takes up a position on the fringes of cabinet as an unofficial assistant minister for ESC. Allocated the C bit. Clings (politically speaking) to Mike Vibert, Tom McKeon and David Greenwood. At this stage would be described, by some, as a classic 'olly dolly'. Privately educated, conservative, landed gentry type, Laura Ashley dresses, flowing blonde hair, with a tendency for NIMBY'ISMS but is praised in certain quarters for being approachable and willing to listen. Then has a rough ride with the cultural strategy, narrowly getting it through the States by the odd vote. Relying heavily on the 'establishment machine' to do so when a certain claque were doing the 'I'll scratch your back' routine. Promises much on that front but fails to deliver anything at all for artists, writers, film makers or anybody with the slightest creative urge. Sounds out of her depth when talking about the subject - even on radio. But does succeed in creating a new level of administration within the department at the taxpayers’ expense. Rod McLoughlin, generally accepted as a good man, becomes her glorified secretary. Cuts funding to grant giving organistaions in order to fund this. So no additional funding for culture is forthcoming under her tenure, no new projects, and certainly no intelligent debate. Culture slips further down the pecking order as the global economy turns. Otherwise acts undetected, politically speaking, until a clarion call for GST exemptions. Failed in that also. Abstains on the incinerator vote. Next seen in the JEP comparing the police raid on the home she shares with her partner to that of the Nazi blitzkrieg on London during the early part of WW2. Commentators across the online spectrum claim she lacks perspective. Difficult to see, given all of the above, that it might be possible to re-package herself as the new darling of the left.
People of Grouville. Next time you are nearing an election take time to gather your thoughts. Look around you and should you see somebody who is down to earth, hardworking, affable and professionally capable - please ask them to stand for Deputy.
