Press Release: Deputy Carolyn Labey Announces Candidature in Grouville and St Martin.
23rd April 2022.
Carolyn Labey, Minister for International Development, has announced she will stand for re-election as Deputy of Grouville and St Martin.
First elected in 2002, she brings over two decades of experience in public service, working at Parish, Island and International levels, and is one of the longest-serving female Deputies in Jersey’s history.
Throughout that time, she has developed a strong track record of delivery, combining community-focused work locally with wider strategic initiatives that promote Jersey’s interests beyond the Island.
Deputy Labey has played a leading role in a number of key initiatives, including establishing the Island Identity project with the Bailiff’s Office to promote Jersey’s unique cultural, social and constitutional identity. Through her work with Jersey Overseas Aid, she has strengthened Jersey’s international profile, hosting a United Nations humanitarian conference in Jersey, securing UN placements for Islanders and supporting political education in schools.
As Jersey’s first Minister for International Development, she has overseen the transformation of Jersey Overseas Aid into a respected, professional organisation delivering measurable global impact – drawing on Jersey’s expertise in dairy, conservation and financial inclusion – while creating opportunities for Islanders through internships, volunteering and international placements.
Locally, she remains closely connected to parish life, holding regular surgeries and supporting initiatives such as St Martin & Grouville Community Support Groups, the Grouville Gazette and Les Grouvelles.
Alongside of this, Carolyn has consistently supported practical policies to improve islanders’ lives; including work on energy policy, public access rights, supporting the fishing and agriculture industries, and has advocated for the needs of the Deaf community. She has also championed greater representation of women in public life.
Commenting on her decision to stand, she said:
“Islanders are facing real pressures — from the cost of living and housing to healthcare. We must also focus on strengthening our skills base and making it easier to do business in Jersey. These challenges demand practical leadership, financial discipline and a government prepared to think ahead. We need solutions that are right for Jersey.”
She added:
“We should also be willing to ask whether Ministerial Government is delivering the accountability and effectiveness Islanders deserve.”
Looking ahead, she highlighted the importance of strengthening Jersey’s external links:
“I want to strengthen relationships with our closest neighbours in France, creating opportunities in tourism, education and regional economic cooperation. Jersey should make more of its proximity to France and the opportunities that brings. At the same time, we should revitalise Gorey Harbour, restoring it to the vibrant working harbour it once was.
In an increasingly uncertain world, we must also continue to promote Jersey’s expertise internationally and build our global reputation. Above all, we need a clear, long-term vision for where we want our Island to be in the years ahead.”
Reflecting on her approach, she said:
“Good politics starts with community – listening, staying accessible and delivering – while having the confidence to take decisions that are right for Jersey.”
“I stand – as ever – as an independent candidate, committed to working collaboratively with others to achieve what is best for our Island.”
“While my experience spans parishes, island and international work, Grouville and St Martin remain at the heart of what I do.”
Deputy Labey will be holding meetings in St Martin & Grouville in the coming weeks to listen to parishioners views and discuss priorities for the future.
