Dark Secrets of a Trillion Dollar Island:Garenne (Lenny Harper)

 

Former SIO/DCO Lenny Harper

Part six of our "Dark Secrets of a "Trillion Dollar Island:Garenne" series, is former Senior Investigating Officer (SIO) and Deputy Chief Officer (DCO) Lenny Harper being interviewed by Jill and George of ONRECORD. This is a MUST WATCH interview showing Mr. Harper at his most relaxed, and watching the reactions of Jill and George as he discusses THE JERSEY SITUATION is just priceless.

One of the most difficult parts of telling people about what goes on in Jersey, how it's run, who runs it, etc is getting them to believe what you're saying. For a section of Jersey people the absolute lunacy is pretty much the norm, it's what makes Jersey "special," or they are not aware (because the media doesn't tell them) just exactly what IS/HAS gone/going on. It's not until you explain it to those who are from off-island and not familiar with THE JERSEY WAY that you see (as in the interview below) just how bonkers/corrupt and almost unbelievable it is.

Mr. Harper talks extensively about the vast amount of firearms/ammunition on the island, how he tried to bring the out of control gun ownership under some kind of control, and what/who he was up against. As mentioned in the interview below, and in Mr. Harper's own AFFIDAVIT, he is/was not just talking about the odd dodgy handgun. Listed in his Affidavit, among other weapons confiscated were an RPG7 Rocket Launcher which was later found to have only "a minor fault." A SEACAT Missile Launcher and much, much more. To include (from Mr. Harper's Affidavit):

"One man applied for a firearm and ammunition for the purpose of ‘pest control.’  The firearm in question is classified as for the purpose of hunting large game such as elk.

Another family in an outlying parish were known to have twenty high powered and semi automatic weapons in a cellar on their property.  They also had thousands of rounds of ammunition.  When visited by SOJ Police officers they were also found to have six months supply of tinned food and bottled water.  They said they were waiting for word from God.  The Connetable refused to revoke the certificate.

One man whom we had found had built up an arsenal of weapons was first granted a certificate in 1985.  In 1992 he was convicted of Possessing a Prohibited weapon, supplying controlled drugs and other crimes.  In 1993 he tried to purchase a shotgun whilst prohibited by the law.  In 1995 intelligence was received that he was supplying controlled drugs.  In 1996 he applied for and was granted a new firearms certificate by the Connetable.  In 2006 he held the following weapons:

1 x .30 semi automatic carbine* 

2 x  7.62 semi automatic rifles*

1 x 7.62 bolt action rifle

1 x  .303 bolt action rifle

1 x  5.56 semi automatic rifle* – as used the British Army

5 x .357 Magnum handguns

2 x  9x21 self loading pistol

1 x 9x19 semi automatic carbine* - similar to that used by the Police

1 x Pump action shotgun

2 x Semi automatic shotguns*

1 x .50 revolver **; and

1 x .50 rifle **

183,000 rounds of ammunition for the above weapons"

VFC tried to make the public aware of of Mr. Harper's Affidavit, through BBC State Radio, but the BBC didn't want to add any balance to its propaganda, and kept the facts hidden from its listener(s) as we reported on HERE. Regular readers will know that the BBC has form in keeping the public ignorant and only telling ONE SIDE of a story and leaving it for Bloggers to tell the OTHER SIDE.

Of course the interview below doesn't just talk of the gun culture and how Parish Constables rule the roost when it comes to issuing gun licences and the like. Further discussed is the honorary system, corrupt cops, good cops, the notorious Attorney General's office, the child's skull that was unearthed at Haut de la Garenne. How he was proud of the Jersey Police Force, all but a few bad apples, and how he was able to start rooting out police corruption only using local officers to investigate. But then he had to deal with the corrupt Attorney General's Office and corrupt politicians!

The difficulties, obstructions, he (and his team) faced, from The Powers That be, when Operation Rectangle became public where he dared to investigate Jersey's Dirty secret(s) involving decades of covered up Child Abuse. How he was able to gain the trust and confidence of Abuse Survivors where close to 200 of them came forward in the hope that their abusers would finally be brought to justice. Again the Attorney General's Office got in the way and after Mr. Harper had retired, Graham Power was (possibly illegally) suspended, a handful of SHOW TRIALS was all we/Survivors got. Out of 121 living suspects 8 of them were charged and only 7 convicted.

Former Bailiff William Bailhache

Also discussed, briefly in the interview, was the vindication by former Bailiff, and former Attorney General, William Bailhache, of Mr. Harper and his police investigation into the decades of concealed Child Abuse. The vindication was made by Mr. Bailhache as part of his retirement SPEECH in the States. The same speech where he attacked the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry and seemingly carried out a VENDETTA on behalf of his brother, Philip Bailhache, who too was Attorney General and Bailiff. Both Bailhache Brothers have QUESTIONS to answer where it comes to their actions/inactions surrounding the investigations (or not) into non-recent Child Abuse in the island. Philip Bailhache has been an outspoken critic of the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry and attempted to get its crucial work Halted. If ever there were two people hiding in plain sight it is they.

Mr. Harper also gives the excellent work carried out by Cadaver dog Eddie and blood dog Keela a mention. He RIGHTLY gives them the full credit they deserve. Both dogs were deployed at Haut de la Garenne and the State Media, and The Powers That Be, did all they could to discredit these amazing animals when both dogs alerted to blood and cadaver up at the home. Their credentials can be witnessed HERE and Eddie alerting to cadaver at Haute de la Garenne HERE. After Keela alerted to blood on the bath at Haut de la Garenne, the entire bath disappeared, under the watch of disgraced former SIO Mick (the leak) Gradwell.

This is possibly the most in-depth, frank, revealing, and relaxed interview Mr. Harper has ever given and full credit must go to George and Jill for making him feel so at ease and giving him the time/space to tell his story. We recommend readers to subscribe to their YOUTUBE CHANNEL where there are many interesting interviews and more interviews to come relating to "The Jersey Situation" and the Dark Secrets of a Trillion Dollar Island:Garenne documentary........................................

Part one of this series (VFC interview with former SIO Lenny Harper) can be viewed HERE.

Part two of this series (VFC interview with Graham Power QPM) can be viewed Here.

Part three of this series (Jill and George interview VFC) can be viewed HERE.

Part four of this series (Jill and George interview award winning author, and investigative journalist, Leah McGrath Goodman) and be viewed HERE.

Part five of of this series (Jill and George interview former (possibly illegally suspended) Chief Police Graham Power QPM) can be viewed HERE.

 

 

Dark Secrets of a Trillion Dollar Island:Garenne. Leah McGrath Goodman.

Leah McGrath Goodman

Following the broadcast of the documentary DARK SECRETS OF A TRILLION DOLLAR ISLAND:GARENNE and in continuation of our series of interviews with those involved in the film, part four of our series is of an interview with award winning author and investigative journalist Leah McGrath Goodman. Leah was interviewed by YouTubers/Podcasters ONRECORD as was VFC HERE and HERE. We are told that OnRecord will be interviewing further key participants involved with the documentary and/or those who have been fighting for the truth to be told. We highly recommend subscribing to OnRecord's YOUTUBE CHANNEL.

Long time/regular readers of VFC will be aware of Leah's struggles, as a journalist, to report on the Jersey Child Abuse cover up and related events, or to coin a phrase, "THE JERSEY SITUATION." This includes her being being (possibly the only western journalist in a so-called "western democracy") BANNED from entering the UK and Jersey after she told Jersey immigration officials that she was investigating (as a journalist) the Child Abuse atrocities at Haute de la Garenne.

Former Deputy Trevor Pitman.

Her banning caused outrage and condemnation for those who support free speech and freedom of the press and former Deputy TREVOR PITMAN launched an online PETITION to restore Leah's visa so she could return to the UK/Jersey and continue her vital work in holding power to account since all our local "journalists" (yeah I know) had no appetite for seeking the truth. The petition helped put pressure on the Jersey/UK authorities to do the right thing and allow her to carry on her work on the Island. Leah was eventually allowed back on the Island after her two year ban was reduced to one year which we reported on HERE. We exclusively interviewed Leah some six days later HERE.

Readers/viewers would do well to click on some of the links in this post (and indeed watch the video interview below) to get an idea of the horrific ordeal Leah McGrath Goodman was put through because she answered a question honestly. She merely told the authorities she was investigating Child Abuse on the Island.

We hope this posting (including its links) gives some background to the story of Leah's experiences, as told in the interview. We also hope that those living in the Jersey bubble might try looking at "The Jersey Situation" from the perspective of an independent international journalist. What is aloud to go on, and unreported, over here just isn't normal/democratic/ethical or even legal.

Part one of this series (interview with former Senior Investigating Officer Lenny Harper) can be viewed HERE.

Part two (interview with former, possibly illegally suspended, Chief Police Officer, Graham Power QPM) can be viewed HERE.

Part three (interview with VFC) can be viewed HERE.

Children's Commissioner, Deborah McMillan, Open Letter to Chief Minister John Le Fondre.

 

Children's Commissioner Deborah McMillan

Dear Chief Minister                                                                                          

12 May 2021

Ref: Minister for Children and Education

I am writing with regard to the role of Minister for Children and Education and seeking reassurance of a commitment to appoint a ‘full time’ Minister as soon as possible following the announcement of temporary arrangements.

On 24^th January I received a call from Charlie Parker who said that you had asked him to speak to me regarding your plan to split the Ministerial roles for Housing and Children and to form a combined role for Children and Education.  I provided my advice and followed this up with a letter. My advice was to form a new Ministerial role with responsibility for all aspects of children’s lives that mirrors the new Children, Young People, Education and Skills Department.  In effect, a children’s rights minister with a cross-cutting role to reflect the breadth of children’s rights. This would mean that the Minister would be able to focus on joining up legislation, policy and practice development that seeks to ensure children’s needs are understood and met, and the best interests of children are paramount. I offered to work with the appointee to provide training and guidance on children’s rights as part of any induction, as well as an ongoing close working relationship with the Minister.

Former(?) Education/Children's Minister Jeremy Macon

On 9^th February Deputy Maçon was elected Minister for Children and Education, and on 1^st March he appointed two Assistant Ministers: Deputy Pointon for CAMHS; and Deputy Wickenden to assist with the education portfolio.

On 24^th March it was announced that, as Chief Minister, you had removed Deputy Maçon from these duties and that you would hold the portfolio for Children and Education until further notice. Deputy Wickenden took on additional responsibilities at that time.

I know that you have valued having dedicated Ministers for the roles of Education and Children, and I valued having a close working relationship with the previous post holders, which gave me the opportunity to spend time with them to provide guidance and advice.  However, since January 2021 I have had little engagement with either Deputy Maçon or Wickenden. My first meeting with Deputy Wickenden was on 22^nd April (at my insistence) to discuss an urgent issue at Victoria College.

Deputy Scott Wickenden

We agreed to hold regular catchup meetings so that I could go through key children’s rights issues with him; however, Deputy Wickenden failed to turn up to the first of those meetings, with no apology or explanation given. 

I appreciate that both Deputies hold wide portfolios and have a number of competing pressures, but I am concerned that the temporary arrangements that you have put in place have now resulted in a lack of ministerial oversight with regard to children and all aspects of their lives. I strongly recommend that you appoint a permanent role as a matter of urgency. The draft Children and Young people Mental Health Strategy, the Jersey Children’s Social Care Services Plan, and the Children’s Plan all set out a compelling vision and require committed, strong political leadership, particularly as we move into a recovery phase following the pandemic.

I would be pleased to discuss this further with you.

Yours sincerely

Deborah McMillan

Children’s Commissioner for Jersey (END)

Press Release from Deputy Montfort Tadier. (Secret Court Cases)

Deputy Montfort Tadier.

PRESS RELEASE

Deputy Montfort Tadier, Chairman of the Jersey Human Rights Group, has said he has concerns that Jersey's Courts may be breaching Human Rights Laws because there will be no mechanism for the public to attend or view the live proceedings of the courts which would otherwise be in open session.

'Article 6 of European Convention on Human Rights, which is reflected in Jersey Law, states that everyone is entitled to a fair and public hearing in the determination of his/her civil rights and obligations or of any criminal charge against him/her.'

'There is also a public interest that the default position is that court proceedings are held in public. The Courts, like the Parliament, should be open institutions.'

'It is not satisfactory, even at a time of pandemic, that court hearings which would otherwise be public, now be inaccessible. Technology easily allows Court proceedings to be livestreamed, in the same way that States Assembly and scrutiny panel meetings are broadcast.'

'I have sent a request to Ministers to establish livestreaming of the Courts where hearings would normally be in public.'

-ENDS-

Advocate Philip Sinel Gives his Reaction to the (infamous) Speech of William Bailhache. (Part one)

Advocate Philip Sinel

On Tuesday 8th of October 2019 the retiring Bailiff, WILIAM BAILHACHE, abused his dual position as the Head of Judiciary, and Speaker of Parliament, to launch a political and personal attack on the Chairman (Francis Oldham QC) of the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry. He did this in the now infamous SPEECH and by abusing the "Communications by the presiding Officer" element of the States Sitting he could NOT (like any elected non-conflicted) be questioned on his speech/statement.

We called this speech a personal VENDETTA carried out on behalf of his brother (and former Bailiff) Philip Bailhache. Where William Bailhache used the words of Francis Oldham QC against her where she wrote of Philip Bailhache (about his equally infamous 2008 liberation Day speech) in her 2017 REPORT:

FRANCIS OLDHAM QC:

“We cannot accept that a politician and lawyer (Philip Bailhache) of his experience would inadvertently have made what he told the Inquiry was an “unfortunate juxtaposition” of words. We are sure that the way in which Jersey is perceived internationally matters greatly to him. His linking of Jersey’s reputation to the child abuse investigation was, we are satisfied, a grave political error,”

WILLIAM BAILHACHE:

“I cannot accept that a lawyer of the Chairman’s experience would inadvertently have drafted such an unfortunate juxtaposition of words. I am sure that the way in which Jersey receives her panel’s report matters greatly to her. Her linkage of allegations of lack of fairness and transparency in decision taking, by the Bailiff to historic (sic) Child Abuse was a grave error.”

As readers would expect the William Bailhache statement/speech sent ripples (Tidal Waves) across New and Old Media and we sought the reactions of the Children's Minister Senator Sam Mezec which we published HERE. The former Senior Investigating Officer of the Jersey Police Child Abuse Investigation (Operation Rectangle) Mr. Lenny Harper, who William Bailhache (unbelievably) seemingly couldn't praise enough for his investigation. We published Mr. Harper's response(s) HERE and HERE.

We also sought the reaction from local constitutional expert, and Advocate, Philip Sinel (video below), who in his trademark fashion told it how it is (from his point of view) and he didn't hold back. He made a few interesting observations, not least, that former Bailiff, and Senator, Philip Bailhache, was pushed, and didn't jump, from the role of Bailiff. It does seem a little bizarre that he allegedly "retired" as Bailiff through "ill health" but felt well enough to run an election CAMPAIGN. Not only run an election campaign but once elected becomes External Relations Minister jetting all over the world. But he felt too ill to be the Bailiff?

Former SIO Lenny Harper

As readers would expect, The Bailiff's apparent total VINDICATION of former Senior Investigating Officer, Lenny Harper, and indeed Operation Rectangle, does not tally-up with his actions/in-actions during his time as AG (during Rectangle) and Advocate Sinel points a number of these out. Including, apparently, having the former Police Chief, Graham Power QPM unsuccessfully criminally investigated as part of the Curtis Warren "car bugging incident" which we reported on HERE, and HERE. We further Exclusively published the BARTON REPORT which was the disciplinary investigation into the cops involved in the Curtis Warren case. The cops were all exonerated but the Law Offices' Department were left with some very uncomfortable questions to answer.

Quote from Barton Report:

"I do find it odd that having asked the Hampshire Police to 
investigate the matters surrounding the Curtis Warren police operation, the
 authorities in Jersey did not co-operate fully in the way that I would have expected
 given that it was they that asked for the enquiry to be carried out. Mr. Cessford made 
this very clear and I have no reason to doubt it and that caused me some
 considerable surprise. I maintain that this lack of co-operation or, perhaps more 
accurately, lack of complete co-operation, can only have compromised the
 Hampshire enquiry and limited the full facts available to me to make a decision in this
 case..................."

Further discussed in part one of this interview is the burning question as to why no Jersey Law Firm has ever taken up the cause for Abuse Survivors? Advocate Sinel HAS given (pro bono) advice to survivors where he can, but as he says in the interview, this is not his legal expertise and there ARE Law firms/lawyers who do specialise in this field yet Survivors have to rely, pretty much one ONE Lawyer from the UK, Alan Collins.

Current Bailiff Tim Le Cocq

We ask Advocate Philip sinel, among much more, is it the fact that Crown Offices' SG/AG/Deputy Bailiff/Bailiff and the Law Offices Department act they way they do because they are totally unaccountable? Is "THE JERSEY SITUATION" because of The Bailhache Brothers or because of the Office of Bailiff itself? Are things going to be any different under the rein of newly BUGGINSESS TURN SYSTEM OF PROMOTION elected Bailiff Tim Le Cocq? Can the UK legislate for Jersey? Whose "interests" are the Lieutenant Governors looking after? We have previously SUGGESTED that he be called as a witness to the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry. (That never happened)

We hope that readers with an interest in "The Jersey situation" or "The Jersey Way" or local constitutional issues find this interview of interest.

Part two coming soon..........................................

Exclusive: Lenny Harper Responds to William Bailhache's Political Attack on Care Inquiry. (Part Two)

Former SIO/DCO Lenny Harper

Part two of our Exclusive interview with former Senior Investigating Officer (Operation Rectangle) and Deputy Chief Police Officer, Lenny Harper, is a direct continuation of Part One as published HERE.

In part one we discussed Mr. Harper's reaction to the political speech, and apparent vendetta, carried out by retiring Bailiff William Bailhache which has received widespread criticism from across the political divide. Video of the speech can be viewed HERE and the Blog written by former Jersey politician can be viewed HERE.

In this concluding part two we discuss the making of a number of documentaries, a film and two books (that we are aware of) concerning "The Jersey Situation" and Mr. Harper's involvement/participation (or not) in there making. We also discuss the role played by the local Old Media (formerly known as MSM) during the Operation Rectangle era and subsequent events. More specifically we discuss the role played by New Media (formerly known as Social Media) and in particular the (or some) Blogs.

Regular readers will be aware that Mr. Harper released a Press Statement in June 2017 just before the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry (IJCI) published its first damming REPORT. Mr Harper's statement explained why he took the decision NOT to engage with the local Old Media but WOULD engage with the National Media and New Media where he wrote:

"It was perhaps an unfortunate “oversight” that the Inquiry Terms of Reference did not include how the Jersey mainstream media was able to manipulate public opinion to try and turn it against the survivors and those acting on their behalf.

For all of these reasons and more, I have decided before knowing what is contained in the report, and no matter what is, that I will not be speaking to the mainstream media in Jersey. Should the public journalists that I have mentioned above wish to speak to me I will of course agree to do so. I will also be happy to speak to United Kingdom media sources." The Press Statement can be read in full HERE.

VFC

We (VFC) were one of these "Public Journalists" mentioned and subsequently interviewed Mr. Harper HERE. The Blogs have been, for years, marginalised by the local Old Media, pedophiles and "The Jersey Way" protectors. We have been called "conspiracy theorists" and trouble makers trying to trash Jersey's reputation. Of course it is not the Bloggers who have reported that 65 children's teeth (some with root still attached and could not have been shed naturally) were left (according to Mick Gradwell) for the Tooth Fairy up at Haute de la Garenne or (according to Ian Le Marquand) they all fell out of children's mouths in the exact same place and fell through a gap in a floorboard. We published the official document(s) of the multiple child remains unearthed at HAUT DE LA GARENNE. When Mick Gradwell, and the Old Media, reported that the cellars didn't exist at Haut de la Garenne we, along with former Deputy BOB HILL reported, with video evidence, the truth in that the cellars DID EXIST. Indeed we have torn to pieces the "official line" given by the Establishment and the Old Media not least in this single BLOG POSTING.

It should also be noted that had it not been for the Blogs, and in particular, Rico Sorda, we might never have found out about the apparent lies told, in the States Assembly, by the then Home affairs Minister, Andrew Lewis during the  (possibly illegal) suspension of former Police Chief Graham Power. Team Voice (notably NOT the Old Media) were leaked the transcripts of the (not so) secret States Debate and published by Rico HERE. Not to mention it was the Blogs, or more significantly Rico Sorda, who first exposed Mick Gradwell for LEAKING confidential police information (while Operation Rectangle was still a live investigation) to a "journalist" with a history of supporting convicted pedophiles.

It is for these reasons we have gained the trust of Survivors and Whistleblowers and indeed our Blogs are used as an essential research archive for National journalists/filmmakers/authors and those with an interest in the historic record of "THE JERSEY SITUATION."

Mr. Harper, and former Police GRAHAM POWER QPM, along with the former Chief Minister IAN GORST acknowledge the work done by this Blog. As does the current Chief Minister JOHN LE FONDRE and the Jersey Independent CARE INQUIRY. Our track record is proven and acknowledged by those, at the forefront of Operation Rectangle, and by those at its fall-out.

Advocate Philip Sinel

In the video below, as well as his support for the Blogs, Mr. Harper discusses his fond (or otherwise) memories of his time in Jersey. How the "power system is handed down from one crony to another and in some cases one brother to another." This is a term referred to as "bugginses turn system of promotion" by Advocate Philip Sinel in his submission to the CARSWELL REVIEW.

We have been granted an interview with Advocate Sinel to get his reaction to William Bailhache's apparent VENDETTA carried out against the IJCI (and by implication the Survivors) for his brother, and former Bailiff, ("bugginses turn system of promotion") Philip Bailhache. We hope to do the interview some time this week.

In the meantime we thank Mr. Harper, not only for the interview and his support of the Blogs, but after being in retirement for around eleven years still not giving up on the Survivors, and the truth, by speaking up/out whenever asked by a reputable/credible media.

Exclusive: Lenny Harper Responds to William Bailhache's Political Attack on Care Inquiry. (Part one)

Former SIO/DCO Lenny Harper

Further to our PREVIOUS POST where we demonstrated how the outgoing Bailiff, William Bailhache, looked to have carried out a vendetta against the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry for his brother, former Bailiff Philip Bailhache. The alleged vendetta was carried out as part of a speech given by Bailhache where he abused his dual position in the States Assembly. Video of the speech can be viewed HERE. During that same speech the out-going Bailiff totally, and unequivocally, vindicated the former Senior Investigating Officer of Jersey's biggest ever Child Abuse Investigation Mr. Lenny Harper.

Long-time readers will know that William Bailhache was the Attorney General during the Police's Child Abuse Investigation (Operation Rectangle) and refused to bring many cases to court. Indeed, in June 2009 he published a PRESS STATEMENT with his so-called "reasons" for NOT doing so. Long-time readers will also know that not all of those "reasons" stood up to just the slightest scrutiny.

From his Press Statement above:

"In another case, the complainant described sustaining 300 to 400 cigarette burn marks and a branding which required a skin graft, but there is no physical sign of any injury................."

But then we have (From the transcripts of the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry) testimony from: "a medical report prepared by a Jason Payne-James."

"On examination of his back there were numerous pale mature scars generally less than ... in size down to about [so much] in size. They extended across [an area of the back], they were in no fixed pattern and of no particular shape. They represent areas of skin that have sustained damage of an extent enough to result in residual scars. Causes could include cigarette burns, insect bites, chickenpox (although other lesions were not noted elsewhere) ..."

These transcripts, and further demonstration that William Bailhache's "reasons" for not prosecuting this particular alleged prolific pedophile can, and should be read HERE.

Why do we bring this up? Because although William Bailhache in his political speech attacking the Care Inquiry (and by implication the Survivors) he also unequivocally VINDICATED Lenny Harper and Operation Rectangle. We asked Mr. Harper if he accepted this vindication (video below) and he told us "actions" speak louder than words." It's all very well the Bailiff saying what a great job Mr. Harper did (10 years later) but what has the "actions" of the Bailiff been? We reported back in 2011 that the Survivors/public were offered a mere handful of SHOW TRIALS while those connected people remained, and remain to this day, protected (The Jersey Way).

Old Media

Of course the fact that Mr. Harper, and Operation Rectangle, were totally, and unequivocally, vindicated by William Bailhache has NOT (to the best of our knowledge) been broadcast/published by any of the local Old Media (formerly known as MSM). Jersey's Old Media has gone out of its way to portray Mr. Harper as the bad guy and it has only ever been the Bloggers, through the years, who have tried adding balance to the Old Media's propaganda and given a voice to those who have been victims of the Old Media. This has included Survivors, Mr. Harper, Graham Power QPM and many others. The Old Media are in a dilemma now because after doing everything it has to discredit Lenny Harper and his Team involved with Operation Rectangle, now the out-going Bailiff (and former AG) Praises/vindicates Mr. Harper and his investigation. It would be difficult for the Old Media to report this because of its trashing of Mr. Harper and his investigation all through the years without looking inadequate (at best) or complicit (at worse).

As far as we are aware we are the only media to report the Bailiff's vindication of Mr. Harper and we ARE the only media to ask him for his reaction. Again regular readers will know that the Old Media ran lots of stories about Mr. Haper, and how much he spent on a Prawn Cocktail, yet NONE of them had the decency, or professional journalistic courtesy to either ask him his side of the story, or offer him any kind of right of reply.

The way the local Old Media went about its business concerning its reporting of Mr. Harper, and related issues, was exposed in what has been described as "The most defining Report of its Era." That report was published by former Deputy TREVOR PITMAN'S Scrutiny Sub Panel and can be read (the short version) HERE and in its entirety HERE.

We are thankful for Mr. Harper's continued support (he retired more than 11 years ago) for the Survivors and for the truth to be told. We are grateful for the interview in order to keep the historic records accurate also.

Part two of this interview will be looking a little deeper into the roles played by Old and New Media over the years concerning Operation Rectangle, the Care Inquiry, and much more.

Mr. Harper (in the interview) basically sums up the irony of William Bailhache's political speech in one quote:

"For someone  who was trying to deny the existence of "The Jersey Way" he made a very good job of actually proving its alive, well and kicking."

Independent Jersey Care Inquiry 2nd Report Imminent.

IJCI

On the 3rd of July 2017 The Jersey Independent Care Inquiry (IJCI) delivered its damming REPORT on the decades of Child Abuse carried out in Jersey State run "care" homes and elsewhere across the island. The Panel, as part of its report, made 8 key recommendations which can be found in the link above or the shorter version can be read HERE.

Two years later the Panel returned to the Island in order to assess how it's recommendations are (or aren't) being implemented by the States of Jersey with a view of publishing a second and (what turns out to be) FINAL report.

We are aware that the Panel has been asked by multiple witnesses/people (including Team Voice) to carry on its work watching, and reporting on, our governments/Law Offices' Department's actions or in-actions. It appears (from the e-mail below) that the Panel has decided to "get the hell out of dodge" and who can blame them? "THE JERSEY SITUATION" is far too big for them to tackle and will only be "remedied" when/if the UK fulfils its constitutional obligation to restore good governance and the rule of law on the Island.

Below is the relevant part(s) of the e-mail received (by VFC) from the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry today explaining when/where its final report will be published, the fact they are getting out of Dodge and much more that deserves some debate. Not least why the Panel has decided to hand over all media questions to the States of Jersey Communications Unit when it was the States of Jersey who have been investigated by the Panel. It doesn't say a great deal for the Panel's independence and hope it will revise this decision?

Relevant extracts from IJCI e-mail.

"I have just put details of the arrangements for the launch of our report on the website www.ijcipanel.org. The launch will be on Monday 23 September 2019 at 1pm in the St Paul’s Centre, St Helier. All are welcome. The presentation will last about 30 minutes and Sandy Cameron will be available to do follow-up interviews. Everyone is happy with the presentation being filmed but we ask that no-one in the audience is filmed in a way that would identify them. We will have some hard copies of the report available at the event and the report will be online from 2pm on 23rd September. We will provide the States of Jersey with a digital copy of the report on 23 September so more copies can be printed as needed.

Because we have completed our work and to ensure people get a prompt response to any questions, we have asked the Communications Unit of the States of Jersey to deal with any questions about the day from print, broadcast, citizens media and members of the public between now and 23 September. We understand the States of Jersey plan to do a media event later that day.

The transcripts of the public sessions will be available online by Monday 9th September.

The public domain material of this review (eg transcripts of public sessions) will be kept with the public domain Inquiry material in perpetuity by Jersey Archive. Sensitive material, such as details of private meetings, contact details etc will be kept off island with the confidential material from the Inquiry.

Our email addresses etc will cease around 23rd September, after which we will not be commenting on any matters and will be unable to engage in any correspondence. In our review report we will discuss what independent scrutiny of progress in Jersey may involve in the future but this is the right time for our work to cease.

We are very grateful to everyone who has shown interest in our work, assisted us, shared their stories and insights with us, encouraged us and challenged us. We hope we will have the chance to reaffirm our appreciation in person when we are in Jersey for the last time later this month.

Kind regards."

Exclusive Interview with Former Deputy Trevor Pitman.

Trevor Pitman

Former Deputy Trevor Pitman will need no introduction to long-time readers/viewers of VFC or the local Blog scene. Trevor, along with his wife, former Deputy Shona Pitman, both represented St. Helier Districts 1 (Trevor) and 2 (Shona).

Both were outspoken critics of "The Jersey Way" or "THE JERSEY SITUATION" and inevitably/ironically/predictably both ended up victims of it. That story is well rehearsed and not for topic of this particular Blog Posting but will no doubt be discussed at a later date. In a nutshell both were made bankrupt in a politicised Jersey Court which automatically debars them from holding political office. Subsequently they lost their seats/jobs/house and were driven from the Island (The Jersey Way). But as discussed in the video interview below, if it turns out that half the Jersey politicians are potential criminals, (discrepancies with election expenses forms) then it is deemed by the Attorney General as "not in the public interest" to prosecute (The Jersey Way).

After being forced off the Island Trevor and Shona travelled Europe and have now settled in the UK.

During (and after) Trevor's time as a St. Helier Deputy he published his own Blog (which is still available in "My Blog-list" on the left-hand side of this Blog) Called THE BALD TRUTH which later became (also available in "My Blog-list) NOT THE STATE MEDIA.

Trevor took a (5 year) break from Blogging and, we are pleased to say, has decided to return and is launching a new Blogsite. The launch date is Wednesday 7th August 2019 and we will add it to "My Blog-list" as well as publish a link to it in the comments section of this posting.

With the launch of his new Blogsite in mind we interviewed Trevor a couple of days ago to ask, among much more, what topics will be covered? Has he been keeping an eye on "The Jersey Situation?" What does he think of the New States Assembly? Will he be reporting on the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry (IJCI) and the implementation  (or not) of its recommendations? We discussed how far forward (back) things have come (gone) since the IJCI published its REPORT and not surprisingly he was as disgusted as we are as to how far things have gone back as demonstrated by Home Affairs Minister LEN NORMAN.

We asked if "The Bald Truth Review" will be making a return? Long-time readers/viewers will remember Trevor would regularly publish a video with a round-up of current/political affairs which proved to be quite popular with his "LEEK OF THE WEEK" and "A TREAT FOR TROLLS" not forgetting his catchphrase "If you don't do politics, politics will do YOU."

William Bailhache

Further discussed in the interview below are subjects like "discrepancies" of the current Bailiff, and former Attorney General William Bailhache, concerning his "reason(s)" for not prosecuting an alleged prolific PEDOPHILE. Once more the "official line" does not stack up and has not been questioned by the Old Media (formerly known as MSM). We ask the former Deputy if he has plans of returning to Jersey politics? How the Jersey (so-called) "JUSTICE" system is used as a tool to silence political dissent(ers) and those who attempt to get "justice" for Abuse Survivors. How Survivors are palmed off with a couple of quid instead of "JUSTICE."

We are sure Trevor's new Blog will be a welcome, and popular addition, to the Blog scene and hope readers/viewers will support it/him. A big thanks for the exclusive interview and look forward to the launch of his Blog on Wednesday 7the August 2019.

Care Inquiry Panel and "The Jersey Way."

Independent Jersey Care Inquiry Panel

Readers will be aware that the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry PANEL has returned to Jersey as reported by VFC HERE followed by an interview with Panel Member Sandy Cameron HERE. The Panel is over to hear from a wide range of witnesses in order to determine how its eight RECOMMENDATIONS have (or haven't) been implemented.

The Panel held a number of private and "public" meetings. The so-called "public" hearings took place at St. Paul's Centre this week between 21st and 24th May and the list of witnesses/schedule can be viewed HERE.

Firstly, as the selected e-mails below will demonstrate, the title of this Blog Posting ("Care Inquiry Panel and "The Jersey Way") was chosen by the Panel itself. We were hoping for the title to be "Care Inquiry shows humility and allows filming of public hearings."  

We should say that the Panel, up to the point of refusing to allow the "public" hearings to be filmed, had been very open and accommodating to us the New Media (formerly known as Social Media) and has kept us (as far as we know) as up to date with its work/schedule during the week as it has with the old media (formerly known as mainstream media). We have been included in the media mailing list and for that we are grateful.

However, a rather bizarre turn of events occurred, (e-mails below), not so much (as bizarre as it is) that the Panel refused to allow Public/Civil Servants, Politicians, and members of the old and new media to be filmed (at "Public" Hearings). It was "The Jersey Way" style that the Panel went back on its word, attempted to defend the indefensible, and pretend it didn't go back on its word.

Here (below) are some e-mails between VFC, and the panel, which should explain how the title of this Blog Posting was chosen (by the Panel) and why (unfortunately) that title is so apt.



Names have been redacted/changed.

"Panel member."

"(witness to Panel) has contacted me after s/he gave evidence to the panel today. S/He has told me that you/the Panel WON'T be allowing the public hearings to be filmed? I'm hoping s/he is mistaken on what the Panel have, or have not, said to him/her

On the 8th May 2019 (12:56pm) in an e-mail to you I asked:

"Will the media be allowed at the public hearings?"

To which you replied (the same date):

"Yes – the media – including social media - will be welcome. There is no accreditation system or dedicated facilities for media. As we are not discussing specific cases, there should be no sensitive material involved so there won’t be restrictions on reporting."

Firstly I hope that (witness to panel) is mistaken but s/he does seem quite adamant. If this is the case I would ask that the Panel reverse its decision to exclude media, show some openness and transparency and honour your commitment above.

The Panel has gained a certain amount of trust from me and I have continued to encourage Survivors/Abusees to participate in your work. IF the Panel has decided to go back on its word and place restrictions on reporting of (ironically) "public" hearings I can only see this as a retrograde step and will bring with it distrust, not only from myself, but from the public, and more importantly Survivors and Abusees.

I cannot, with a clear conscience, support the Panel's work if it has decided to go back on its word (or lied to me). Further; holding "public" hearings and not allowing filming of them is an absurdity! It's something only the Jersey authorities (one would have thought) could dream up.

What would be the icing on the cake is if the Panel doesn't allow filming of the hearing involving the media. Surely the media is all about openness? How could the panel sell to the public that it is open and transparent if it is going back on its word and restricting media reporting at "public" and "media" hearings?

I am considering publishing a Blog on this apparent turn of events and like any responsible media I am seeking your side of the story as it were.

As I have said, I hope (witness to Panel) has got this wrong. If s/he hasn't then I ask the Panel, in order to keep/gain my, the public, trust and confidence that it honours its commitment in the e-mail of 8th May.

Please consider your reply for possible publication on my Blog.

(VFC.)"

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"Hello (VFC)

As I said in my earlier email we foresee there will be no restrictions on what can be reported – unlike the Inquiry where Frances had to ask for some names etc that inadvertently were mentioned, to be redacted when reported. In looking at how things are reported, we have to take sensible steps to make the environment suitable and safe for the people who are participating.

The sessions will be professionally recorded and transcribed and the transcripts published online. (This is not an overnight service like the Inquiry – it will take a few days). This will provide an accurate and accessible record.

We looked at whether the sessions could be streamed (in the way meetings of the States are broadcast) and there were issues which made it problematic. We had considerations raised on behalf of some of the people coming to participate (parents, care experienced people etc) who for very good reasons do not want their full details publicised. Others who are simply attending as members of the public also expressed concern lest they be identified attending. Filming could cause these people distress. We also are alert to potential liability issues arising from filming someone without their consent , in a situation where we cannot monitor what/who is being filmed. 

For all those reasons no filming will be allowed in the room. 

This applies to all media organisations and individuals. We ask everyone in media to be trustful of these sensitivities.

Kind regards (Panel Member)"

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"(Panel Member)

I hate to say it but this is a "Jersey Way" response from you/The Panel. You have misled me (and others) by firstly saying:

"Yes – the media – including social media - will be welcome. There is no accreditation system or dedicated facilities for media. As we are not discussing specific cases, there should be no sensitive material involved so there won’t be restrictions on reporting."

You/The Panel have done a 180 on that statement and not even acknowledged it. Rather you have tried to defend the indefensible and pretend you were correct in what you originally stated.

Having done a study/report on our Island you must be aware how important openness and transparency is for the "good" people of Jersey. It is something we have fought for for years and continue to do so. I/we never thought we'd be fighting against a panel who is over here to rid the Island of this secrecy.

This part of the statement from your previous e-mail is about as unambiguous as it gets:

"so there won’t be restrictions on reporting."

Not being allowed recording devices or cameras is a restriction on reporting. I wanted to film part(s) of the hearing and publish it/them on my Blog. But the "restriction" on cameras has "restricted" my reporting. There clearly are restrictions and by denying this further casts a shadow over the integrity of the Panel and shows it in the light of "The Jersey Way."

You either intentionally misled me and others to begin with or you are being dishonest/disingenuous now.

With regard to your latest e-mail and in particular this sentence:

"We had considerations raised on behalf of some of the people coming to participate (parents, care experienced people etc) who for very good reasons do not want their full details publicised."

This is obviously a new dilemma since you first said there would be no restrictions and one that I'm not unsympathetic to. That is a fair consideration. However this mornings hearings were exclusively with Civil (Public) Servants who, incidentally, are answerable to the public and I see no reason why they could/should not be filmed.

After seeing the lay out of the room at St. Paul's I see no reason why a camera can't be pointed at the table blocking out any members of the public. I agree any members of the public who are giving evidence shouldn't be filmed if that's what they wish as I share their fear of repercussions and "The Jersey Way."

Could I please ask:

1) Will you/The Panel accept that you misled me in saying "so there won’t be restrictions on reporting."?

2) Will you/The Panel reverse the decision not to allow cameras in cases of Civil Servants/Politicians and those who have no objections to being filmed?

3) Have any of the island's media questioned your decision on the camera ban?

4) I would like (for the historical record of my Blog) to film when I give evidence on Thursday. There will only be Bloggers and journalists at the table. Even if the Panel refuses to be open enough to allow filming of Civil Servants and politicians what harm can be done filming the media/Social Media?

You will be aware that I was contacted by a European documentary film production who asked me if filming was permitted, at the "public" hearings, and I assured them it was by sending the relevant part of your e-mail:

"Yes – the media – including social media - will be welcome. There is no accreditation system or dedicated facilities for media. As we are not discussing specific cases, there should be no sensitive material involved so there won’t be restrictions on reporting."

They too saw this as unambiguous in that there were no restrictions and travelled to Jersey (at a great cost one should imagine) on that basis. This has turned out to be a waste of time and money for them and is further embarrassment to the Panel.

As I mentioned in my previous e-mail, I am considering publishing a Blog on this subject and including our e-mails, or relevant parts of, as evidence of what has transpired. I am pondering on what the title of the Blog might be and it depends on your answers to my questions, and related concerns, in this e-mail.

The two titles I'm thinking on are something along the lines of;

A) "Care Inquiry Panel and The Jersey Way."

B) Care Inquiry shows humility and allows filming of public hearings.

You will appreciate that I have credited the Panel/Inquiry where it is due and will continue to do so. I will also challenge it where I feel it is necessary to do so and this is one of those times.

Look forward to your reply.

(VFC)."

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"(VFC).

1. No
2. No
3. No
4. No

You are of course free to publish whatever you wish and we will defend to the death your right to do so."(END)

As readers will see from question, and answer,  No.3 if the Panel is to be believed. None of the Island's media questioned the Panel's decision to restrict the reporting of the Hearings. This, we argue, is a major part of "The Jersey Problem." The old media (although it has improved in some areas) is inherently compliant. It (old media) should not only have challenged this assault on the so-called "Free Press" it should have called the Panel out and publicly challenged it in order to fight for the freedom of the Press (as we have done). Apparently its immediate reaction is to comply and not challenge.  It appears that the ONLY Jersey media to question the "no cameras restriction" is the new media (this Blogger). We are aware that the Panel was challenged by media who were visiting from off-island who clearly aren't as compliant as the local media.

As mentioned in the e-mails, we see this secretive and "Jersey Way" style of the Panel as a retrograde step in what we believed to be a much improved relationship between us, the public and them.

We maintain that "no reporting restrictions" means "no reporting restrictions" no matter how you try to dress it up.

Stay tuned for the next Blog Posting on the hearing where the old and new media were the witnesses and who had the courage to turn up and who didn't................................................