From Maya Hammarsal.
THE discussion on the proposed new incinerator this week shows at least that someone is thinking about our health and wallets.

I am grateful that Dr Van Steenis is over here to inform us of the risks and show that there are less costly and polluting alternatives to erecting a megalithic incinerator upwind of St Helier.

The acceptance of an incinerator at all once again shows the knee-jerk tunnel vision way in which our politicians respond to long-term problems facing the Island. There is never an informed debate, the views of the population are ignored (look at GST), and they only see the problem at hand (in this case waste disposal), not the wider picture or long-term implications (in this case our health and the costs to the taxpayer).

It begs the question: if the new incinerator is a risk to health, what is the current one doing to us? And what is Guy de Faye, as minister in charge, doing to protect us? Absolutely nothing. This is a man who shows continual ignorance about health and safety issues and contempt for those who know what they are talking about.

Look at his comments on seatbelts in the face of medical evidence. What gets me is how a person who failed to achieve an all-Island mandate and was only voted in as Deputy by a minuscule percentage holds this responsible position.

To my mind, he shows neither the qualities of character nor the education to fulfil this role adequately, yet regardless there he is, dictating our future. I’d like to know if he can be replaced in time before we’re stuck with his legacy of toxic pollution.
16 Vauxhall Street,
St Helier.