Third deputy to propose return of senator role

A deputy is proposing the return of politicians who are voted in by people from across Jersey.

Deputy Elaine Millar said the removal of senators had led to a decline in voter satisfaction and representation and proposed nine senators to replace a deputy from each of the island's constituencies.

Senators were elected island-wide until 2022 when the position was scrapped under electoral reforms aimed at making the island's elections fairer and simpler.

Two other politicians separately tried to revive the role in 2023, but both propositions were rejected.

Ms Millar said she wanted the proposition approved and in effect before the 2026 election.

She said: "A majority of the electorate wish to see the return of the island-wide mandate at the next election.

"Bringing back senators will enhance the fairness of elections in Jersey and ensure that future governments are more representative of the voters who have elected them."

Ms Millar said bringing back senators would also benefit political parties.

She said: "It is only natural that those parties will relish the opportunity of an island-wide platform from which to put their policies to the voters.

"This proposition will give those parties the opportunity of winning up to nine seats in the states through one election, and the chance to demonstrate that they have broad support from voters across the island."

If approved, it would mean the 2026 election would see nine senators, 28 deputies and 12 constables.

The proposition will be debated at the earliest on 4 February.

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