A written summary provided by the candidate outlining their background, experience and priorities.
Cheryl Roberts
Stanley Constituency
My decision to stand in the upcoming election for the Stanley constituency, was made after considerable reflection, and support from family and friends. Although I had been preparing for semi-retirement from my long-standing role in the Falkland Islands fishing industry. While I will remain a non-executive director of Beauchene Fishing and its joint-venture companies, I will be stepping back from daily operations to focus fully on the Assembly, should I be elected.
I bring over 30 years of business and community leadership, particularly within the fishing sector. My experience includes leading Beauchene Fishing since purchase in 2003, managing major challenges such as the loss of a vessel in 2020 and commissioning a €35m replacement. I hold a number of directorships, including CFL and SAAS in addition to serving on various public boards and committees. A project I initiated with pride is the restoration of the Cape Pembroke Lighthouse. Stakeholders for this work are now Beauchene Fishing, FIG, CFL working with F.I.M.N.T along with three local contractors.
My full manifesto outlines several priorities for the next Assembly. The Islands need stronger cooperation between government and the private sector, greater efficiency in the civil service, and more transparency. I would like to see closer scrutiny of the “user pays” model, especially where community assets have already been publicly funded, noting electricity pricing as an example that requires urgent review.
Large capital projects form a significant part of my manifesto, and I am sceptical of the proposed floating port’s long term viability without a strong maintenance plan. I am concerned about the environmental and financial implications of a new diesel burning incinerator. I would support the move toward renewable energy but emphasize the importance of aligning wind-farm development with power-station planning. Reflecting on past losses of public funds, i.e. £20m wasted on previous concrete port plans. We must learn from previous costly projects.
My vision for public services includes strengthening education, expanding apprenticeships, and ensuring attractive career pathways for young people so they will return home. In telecommunications, I oppose renewing SURE S.A.’s monopoly and advocate for competition.
Tourism is held back by inadequate infrastructure, from jetty facilities to airport issues, i.e. rotor winds and securing a second commercial flight which is vital for industry growth. We must embrace the importance of preparing for potential hydrocarbons development, including establishing a sovereign wealth fund, and taking a strong evidence based approach to the contentious issue of salmon farming.
Immigration remains a huge concern and has an effect on our education and medical services. The new assembly must have a relook at the points system and address this situation urgently.
Housing requires a relook at government housing to consider building at least three storeys for flats, this would free up land for first time buyers and allow cheaper rented FIG accommodation for our younger generation.
Whilst we have a Stanley and camp based constituency, we are a one Island community and if elected that would always be stance for decision making.
The first 250 words of the candidate’s manifesto.
Following long and hard deliberations I have decided to stand for election on 11th December 2025. I had been considering taking semi-retirement from our business, therefore this decision has not come easy. The route I was about to take was for more time off but after receiving support from family and friends I feel now is the right time for me to make the biggest commitment to our Islands. Previously this had not been possible due to our own business interests with Beauchene Fishing Co Ltd and our associate companies with our Spanish partners. Whilst I will remain as a non-executive director of Beauchene Fishing and our joint-venture companies, I will not be involved in the day-to-day management and running of the companies.
In the spirit of transparency, on a personal note. I have two incredibly special events that I will be attending during the coming year, University graduation day for my daughter and a family wedding. These are unmissable but my commitment to serving the Islands will not waver.
If I am elected, I will file all required declarations of interest. Our company now has the strongest team ever, which gives me the confidence to carry out this commitment.
My business and community involvement
Over 30 years working in the Falkland Island Fishing Industry.
Purchased Beauchene Fishing in 2003
Working with two Spanish business partners and, despite many challenges, this included the commissioning and operation of a new €35m vessel following the loss of one of our vessels through...
Ten short questions. Ten 30 second answers. Candidates respond without preparation.
An extended interview exploring the candidate’s background, priorities and views. All candidates were given the same set of advance questions, with additional on the spot manifesto-specific questions asked during the interview. Each interview is limited to 15 minutes.
Disclaimer: All interviews were conducted on an equal basis and are presented in full, with minimal editorial intervention. Any edits made were limited solely to the removal of offensive language, to allow viewers to hear directly from each candidate in their own words. Some issues discussed in these interviews are currently subject to ongoing legal processes. Any references to legal or procedural matters reflect the candidates’ own views. FITV does not comment on, and does not seek to influence, ongoing legal proceedings. These interviews form part of FITV’s commitment to providing clear, accessible information to support informed voting ahead of polling day.
FITV was invited to film the candidate hustings hosted by the Falkland Islands Chamber of Commerce. Candidates were divided into four groups by constituency: one group representing Camp and three groups representing Stanley. As part of the event, members of the Chamber were invited to submit questions to be put to the candidate panels in advance, and Chamber members in attendance were also able to ask follow-up questions from the floor.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by candidates during the hustings recordings are their own and do not reflect those of FITV. The discussion may contain strong language. FITV does not endorse or support any individual candidate or political viewpoint and remains impartial in its coverage.
