personal or of island importance. This is why the Connétable has been affectionately known as the "father of the parish". The Connétables are elected by the


electorate of the parish for a period of three years, but they remain in office, notwithstanding their term of office ending, until their successor is sworn-in to office. There is no apparent age limit, nor, ostensibly any disqualification such as incapacity or criminal record. However the Royal Court exercises a supervisory jurisdiction over the holder of office. Similarly the Royal Court could decline to administer the oath were the Attorney General to make a


representation which rendered the candidate, for whatever reason, unfit for office. Whereas


elections for Connétable have occurred as and when necessary in the past, a proposition was adopted in 2007 to hold a one-day election for Connétables, and for their term to increase to four years. This will hopefully begin in October of this year.


and with planning applications, which are considered by the Roads Committee. Each parish has an administration


office, manned by professional staff. As well as supporting the Connétable, they are responsible for issuing driving licences, firearm certificates, dog licences, Sunday trading permits, as well as receiving parish rates. They also keep the


aspects of the good running of the parish including the parochial honorary police which he/she delegates to the Chef de Police. The parish hall enquiry system is a system which is coveted by the many other police authorities who have looked at it.


People reported for an offence are, in


the first instance, interviewed by the parish Centenier who is then responsible for deciding if a charge is to be laid. The system is unique in being able to keep people, especially youngsters, out of the criminal justice system. The 12


Connétables meet together on two days a month as the Comité des Connétables/ Supervisory Committee. The title of Supervisory Committee is the name given to the 12 Connétables in the Rates (Jersey) Law 2005. They are supported


The crests of the 12 parishes surround the Jersey crest on the ceiling over the entrance to the States’ Chamber.


electoral register as well as giving secretarial support to the honorary police. The post of Connétable has always


Positions of trust The role of the Connétable is effectively scrutinized by two elected trustees (Procureur du Bien Public) who are responsible for assisting the Connétable, but also for ensuring that the parish budget is correctly used. Nevertheless, the Connétable has the final say in all matters parochial, this with the support of a parish assembly decision if it is required. The Connétable is also asked to give


a parish response to licensing applications which are subject of a recommendation of a parish assembly,


been regarded as the pinnacle of parochial honorary service. A small honorarium was traditionally voted to the Connétable but no other remuneration. Their service to the States was also honorary until the mid-1990s when all States Members were able to receive an expense allowance. In 2004 this was changed to a payment available to all States Members. This is to allow any registered elector to present themselves for election, regardless of their financial status.


Although the Attorney General is the


titular head of the honorary police, the Connétable remains responsible for all


by a professional secretary and their meeting is chaired by an elected one of their number. They consider all matters which are likely to affect the workings of the States and parishes together. They also invite


Ministers to their meetings for discussions of any possible effects of policy on the parishes.


A way of Jersey life The Parochial system and the role of the Connétable continue to be the great strength of the island's social fabric. The competition which exists between


parishes, in sport as well as in other facets of life, leads to rivalry, but also to friendship and strong community spirit. The public, certainly in the rural


parishes, remain closer to their parish, where they can have more influence over, and closer contact with, their elected administration. The demise of the parochial system would see a very different Jersey.


The Parliamentarian 2008/Issue One - Jersey 21


Father Of The Parish


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