On Air Now Josh Lovatt 10:00am - 2:00pm
Now Playing Lizzo About Damn Time

Women break records in the States Assembly this term

The first Women's Parliamentary Caucus in Jersey took place in March to encourage women to stand for election

The island has elected 22 women to the States Assembly, more than ever before.

Last political term there were 21 women in the States Chamber.

Lucy Stephenson, who has been re-elected as Deputy of St Mary, St Ouen and St Peter, is Chair of the Women's Parliamentary Caucus. She says a record is a record:

"At one stage, when we had fewer female candidates standing, it looked like we could see a reduction of women in the States.

"I'm really glad we've held the position and gained one more."

Jersey also has its first ever female Constable of St Helier in Inna Gardiner, who says she is 'deeply honoured' to get the role.

 Inna Gardiner, formerly a town deputy, becomes Constable of St Helier.

Inna Gardiner joins Karen Shenton Stone, Andy Howell and Tina Palmer as Constables - the most women Jersey has ever had in the role at any one time.

Additionally, all the women that stood for the role of senator were successful in Sunday's election.

Helen Miles topped the poll, and Elaine Millar and Mary Le Hegerat join her back in the Assembly.

Newcomer and former England netballer Serena Kersten Guthrie, came 5th in the race for the nine seats.

Deputy Stephenson said:

"It would have been fantastic to see more women put themselves forward in that category. It's a particularly difficult and daunting one, but hopefully in future years we'll see women who have been inspired and encouraged by it.

"The last time we had a senatorial vote we had women toping the poll too, so there's a pattern there."

 Lucy Stephenson was re-elected to serve a second term as deputy in St Mary, St Ouen and St Peter.

There was a large campaign running this year to encourage women to stand.

It included a Women's Parliamentary Caucus on International women's day, that was hailed a 'resounding success' in unity and support.

READ: Jersey's first Women’s Parliamentary Caucus a 'resounding success'

The States Assembly is now 45% female, with 22 women and 27 men. 

More from Jersey News

Comments

Add a comment

Log in to the club to add your comment.

Channel 103 VIP

Become a Channel 103 VIP and get access to our exclusive Behind The Mic newsletter!

Just Played Songs

Jersey Weather

  • Wed

    16°C

  • Thu

    17°C

  • Fri

    17°C

  • Sat

    20°C