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Julie Thomas (politician)
Chief Minister of Saint Helena From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Julie Dorne Thomas is a politician from Saint Helena who has served as the island's inaugural Chief Minister since October 2021. She also serves as Minister for Education, Skills and Employment and as a member of the Legislative Council.
Prior to politics, Thomas worked in the fisheries sector.
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Early life
Thomas was born and raised on Saint Helena.[2] Thomas worked in the United Kingdom and has travelled to the United States, South Africa, and Ascension Island.[2]
Career
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Thomas was appointed as a member of the St Helena Fisheries Corporation Board of Management on 9 January 2019.[1] She was also a member of the executive committee of the St Helena Commercial Fishermen's Association (SHCFA) and the International Pole & Line Foundation (IPNLF)'s Project Manager on St Helena.[2]
In the 2021 Saint Helena general election, Thomas received the most votes out of all candidates to the Legislative Council with 888 votes.[3] Thomas was subsequently elected as the first Chief Minister of Saint Helena on 25 October 2021.[4][5] She was also appointed as Minister for Education, Skills and Employment on 1 November 2021.[6]
Under Thomas' government, improvements were made in internet services, but the island did not receive full fibre internet connection that many had hoped for.[7] The introduction of ophthalmology and audiology services, along with advancements in preventative care, were also notable achievements.[7] In education, the government supported the introduction of the COBIS framework to address declining standards and improve outcomes.[7]
Following the dissolution of Thomas' government in June 2025, Liam Yon of The Sentinel reported that opinions on her tenure were divided.[7] While there was recognition of the improvements in education and healthcare, there were also criticisms regarding telecommunications and fisheries.[7]
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Personal life
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References
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