Historic changes to Guernsey's parish powers proposed

Historic powers held by parish officials will be changed if Guernsey's deputies agree later this month.

It follows a review of the roles and powers of the parish officials, constables and douzaines.

A report by the Parochial Legislation Working Party includes recommendations to change or repeal current laws, some of which are more than 100 years old.

If approved officials would lose roles such as "sanitary inspector" and "competent rat authority".

Before 2004 douzaine representatives were part of the States, currently made up of 45 deputies and two Alderney States members.

Since then debate has continued as to the relevance and significance of the parish in modern day island life.

The report suggests the parishes retain control of powers to issue Sunday trading licences, allow fireworks to be set off and continue to inspect the island's quarries.

Other suggestions include making offences relating to blocking up streams or not cutting hedges a civil rather than criminal matter.