Deputy behind Mesothelioma scheme to stand again

Thursday 21 April 2022

Jersey’s first States Member of Portuguese heritage, who was responsible for setting up the asbestos-linked cancer compensation scheme, has announced that she will be standing for re-election in June.

Reform Jersey’s Carina Alves hopes to take one of five seats in the St. Helier Central district, which covers much of the Springfield and Rouge Bouillon area.

Previously a teacher before becoming a States Member in May 2018, the Deputy has served on the panel responsible for scrutinising Health and Social Security.

Last year, she was elected to lead the Privileges and Procedures Committee, which is responsible for overseeing the running of the States Assembly and voting system. Since then, she has brought forward proposals to reform States Members’ declarations of interest.

As a backbencher, Deputy Alves also succeeded in getting the government to agree to set up a compensation scheme for people suffering from Mesothelioma after contact with asbestos.

“This last term has been a steep learning curve with covid and Brexit, but as a party we worked extremely hard to continue to support our constituents,” she commented.

“I carried out scrutiny of covid legislation as a member of the health scrutiny panel, was able to successfully complete a course in Parliamentary Governance and dealt with many safeguarding concerns through case work that have had a positive impact on families and children.”

“This election could be a real turning point for achieving tangible changes. I would like to continue to empower the public and ensure they have access to information they need and their rights. Voters are often left unsure, disillusioned, or confused by systems in place so ensuring information is communicated in an accessible and consistent way to all is paramount.”

“Islanders’ health also continues to be a real issue, both mental and physical, understanding that factors such as, unaffordable housing and inadequate work conditions can all have an impact is important, so it is important to have a holistic approach - improving access to our health services as well as ensuring safe, affordable, and adequate housing and job stability need to be priorities.” 

The election is taking place on Wednesday 22 June.