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Row between Deputies and Guernsey Education staff 'cannot continue'

The Chief Executive of Guernsey States says a row between Deputies and civil servants working within the Education Department 'cannot continue.'

There will now be a review of support measures in place to deal with what he calls a 'disconnect.'

His comments come as islanders await details of new plans for secondary education and pre-schools, which are due to be announced in the States tomorrow.

I am conscious that the professional relationship between the new Committee for Education, Sport & Culture and senior staff working under their direction has been strained at times. Work has been ongoing, and with the agreement of both the Committee and staff, to take all reasonable steps to resolve underlying issues to enable all to carry out their responsibilities.

However, following the recent public comments made by the Vice-President for the Committee for Education, Sport & Culture, it is apparent that concerns remain over a disconnect between the Committee and staff. As such, it is important for us to review the current status and progress of support measures put in place before determining the way forward.

I must be clear that this is not about apportioning blame, but few issues are more important than the education of our children and it is imperative that we help foster a strong and productive relationship between staff and politicians. Clearly, it is not good government and cannot continue.'

– Paul Whitfield, Chief Executive for the States of Guernsey
Paul Whitfield, Chief Executive for the States of Guernsey