PROPOSITION
THE STATES are asked to decide whether they are of opinion –
to approve the re-appointment of Mr Geoffrey Colin Powell CBE as Chairman of the Jersey Child Care until 31st December 2011.
Minister for Education Sport & Culture
Report
At its meeting of 18th February 1997, the States adopted a proposition of the Education Committee (P.244/96) and approved the setting-up by the States of the Jersey Child Care Trust to co-ordinate, promote and facilitate expansion of child care provision in the Island.
Following registration of the Trust’s Constitution before the Royal Court on 5th December 1997, the Trust has supported the development of significant advances in the range, quality and quantity of child care places available for children aged up to twelve years, and has formed a close and working relationship with other agencies, both States and private, which are concerned for the welfare of children.
The Constitution of the Trust requires the States, on the recommendation of the Minister for Education Sport & Culture to appoint an independent person, who is not a States Member, to act as Chairman of the Trust.
Since January 2001, the position has been filled by Mr Geoffrey Colin Powell CBE who has brought exemplary leadership, integrity and vitality to the position and has demonstrated a high degree of professional commitment to the aims and objectives of the Trust.
The Minister for Education Sport & Culture is, therefore, delighted to advise Members that Mr Geoffrey Colin Powell has indicated his willingness to serve for a further two year term as Chairman order to assist in a review of arrangements for childcare support which will be undertaken by DfESC during this period.
In view of the above the Minister would therefore recommend his appointment in this position to the States.
There are no additional financial or manpower implications arising from this proposition.
Although States procedures have changed with regard to appointments of this nature, the new procedures require a change in JCCT Constitution which will require Royal Court approval. In order to speed up proceedings therefore, it has been agreed that this appointment can be made under existing arrangements.