STATES OF JERSEY OFFICIAL REPORT

TUESDAY, 29th SEPTEMBER 2026

COMMUNICATIONS BY THE PRESIDING OFFICER...................................... 6

1. Welcome to His Excellency the Li eutenant Governor .................................. 6

2. Welcome to His Majesty's Solicitor General ............................................ 6

QUESTIONS....................................................................................... 6

2. Written Questions ........................................................................ 6

1. Connétable I. Gardiner of St. Helier of the Minister for Social Security regarding an increase in the old-age pension. (WQ.148/2026) ........................................ 6
2. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Chief Minister regarding work, research or reports of the Policy Centre Jersey. (WQ.149/2026)................. 7
3. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development regarding revisions to the concession agreement between the Government of Jersey and DFDS. (WQ.150/2026) ..................................... 8
4. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding Andium Homes funding. (WQ.151/2026) .................................... 8
5. Deputy V. Li of St. Helier North of the Minister for Education and Li felong Learning regarding the structure of her Department. (WQ.152/2026) ........................... 10
6. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding 2 senior public servants leaving Government employment. (WQ.153/2026)

 .......................................................................................... 14

7. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the States Grant full formula value. (WQ.154/2026) ........................ 14
8. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development regarding streamlining the public sector workforce. (WQ.155/2026) .. 15
9. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for the Environment regarding the current level of regulation of Jersey's commercial fishing industry. (WQ.156/2026) ......................................................................... 16
10. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour of the Minister for Social Security regarding minimum income standards. (WQ.157/2026) .......................................... 17
11. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Chief Minister regarding the gender pay gap across Jersey's Arm's Length Organisations. (WQ.158/2026) ......................................................................... 17

11. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Housing regarding the Minister's proposed review of the Andium Housing Gateway eligibility criteria. (WQ.159/2026) ................................................................ 20

12. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the Minister for Heal th and Social Services regarding the new acute hospital project. (WQ.160/2026)............................. 22

14. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding expenditure on the new healthcare facilities programme. (WQ.161/2026) . 24
15. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding Andium Homes. (WQ.162/2026) ............................................ 25
16. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development regarding barriers preventing DFDS or Condor Ferries from operating inter-island. (WQ.163/2026) ........................................................... 26
17. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Education and Li felong Learning regarding the creation of a Strategy for embedding lifelong learning and skills. (WQ.164/2026) .................................................................. 26
18. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Housing regarding a mixture of young and mature persons in the same apartment blocks in Andium Homes. (WQ.165/2026) ......................................................................... 27
19. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding the Island's bid to host the 2035 Island Games. (WQ.166/2026) ......................................................................... 28
20. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Chair of the Comité des Connétable s regarding the Visites du Branchage. (WQ.167/2026) ................ 29
21. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Housing regarding policy mechanisms to address empty residential properties. (WQ.168/2026)

  30

22. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the Revolving Credit Facility for Andium Homes. (WQ.172/2026) ........ 33
23. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding Andium Homes' priorities for 2027 to 2030. (WQ.173/2026) .............. 34
24. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs regarding a detailed timeline of the actions required to bring forward Hate Crime legislation to the Assembly. (WQ.174/2026) .......................................... 35
25. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour of the Chief Minister regarding the demographic of people who are permanently leaving the Island. (WQ.175/2026).... 35

3. Oral Questions ........................................................................... 37

1. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Heal th and Social Services regarding the contract between Bouygues UK and the Government (OQ.83/2026). ............................................................. 37

Senator T.J.A. Binet (The Minister for Heal th and Social Services):........................ 37

1. Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 37
2. Connétable I. Gardiner of St. Helier :................................................... 37
3. The Connétable of St. Helier : .......................................................... 38
4. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central: ............................................ 38
5. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................. 38
6. Deputy V. Li of St. Helier North: ...................................................... 38
7. Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 38

2. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour of the Minister for Education and Li felong Learning regarding the pilot scheme to provide free fruit to children in some primary schools (OQ.89/2026). ......................................................... 39

Deputy C.D. Curtis of St. Helier Central (The Minister for Education and Li felong

Learning): .............................................................................. 39

1. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet : ................................................................ 39
2. Deputy K.F. Morel of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity : ............................ 39
3. Deputy K.F. Morel : .................................................................... 40
4. Connétable I. Gardiner of St. Helier :................................................... 40
5. The Connétable of St. Helier : .......................................................... 40
6. Deputy M. Tadier of St. Brelade : ...................................................... 40
7. Deputy V. Li of St. Helier North: ...................................................... 40
8. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet : ................................................................ 41

3. Deputy V. Li of St. Helier North of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding the Northern Sewer Network Upgrades (OQ.82/2026). ................................... 41

Deputy J. Renouf of St. Brelade (The Minister for Infrastructure): .......................... 41

1. Deputy V. Li : ........................................................................... 41
2. Connétable I. Gardiner of St. Helier :................................................... 42
3. The Connétable of St. Helier : .......................................................... 42
4. Connétable A.N. Jehan of St. John : .................................................... 43
5. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement : .................................................. 43
6. Deputy K.M. Wilson : .................................................................. 44

4. Connétable I. Gardiner of St. Helier of the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development regarding a social enterprise framework (OQ.85/2026). .............. 44

Deputy F.G. Voisin of St. Helier North (The Minister for Sustainable Economic

Development): .......................................................................... 44

1. The Connétable of St. Helier : .......................................................... 44
2. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity :............................. 45
3. Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 45
4. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central: ............................................ 46
5. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................. 46
6. The Connétable of St. Helier : .......................................................... 46

5. Deputy L.D. Carpenter of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Education and Li felong Learning regarding the procurement process that took place in appointing Apetito to provide hot school meals for Government primary schools (OQ.81/2026). ............................................................................................ 46

Deputy C.D. Curtis of St. Helier Central (The Minister for Education and Li felong

Learning): .............................................................................. 47

1. Deputy L.D. Carpenter : ................................................................ 47
2. Deputy K.F. Morel of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity : ............................ 47
3. Deputy K.F. Morel : .................................................................... 47
4. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour :................................................ 47
5. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet : ................................................................ 48
6. Deputy S.J. Gleave of St. Helier South: ................................................ 48
7. Deputy V. Li of St. Helier North: ...................................................... 48
8. Deputy V. Li : ........................................................................... 49
9. Deputy L.D. Carpenter : ................................................................ 49

6. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the Chair of the Jersey Development Company (OQ.79/2026).

 ............................................................................................ 49

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean (The Minister for Treasury and Resources): .................... 49 3.6.1 Deputy M.B. Andrews :................................................................. 50

7. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding working with the Minister for Heal th and Social Services in assessing and managing the Hospital Project's financial risks (OQ.87/2026). ...... 50

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean (The Minister for Treasury and Resources): .................... 50

1. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................. 50
2. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity :............................. 51
3. Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 51
4. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement : .................................................. 51
5. Deputy K.M. Wilson : .................................................................. 51
6. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................. 52

8. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Planning and Regulation regarding a prioritised inspection plan for agricultural staff accommodation over summer 2026 (OQ.84/2026)............................... 52

Senator Sir M.J. Boleat (The Minister for Planning and Regulation): ....................... 52 3.8.   Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 52

9. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Heal th and Social Services regarding the Hospital Project Political Oversight Group (OQ.88/2026). 52

Senator T.J.A. Binet (The Minister for Heal th and Social Services):........................ 52

1. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................. 53
2. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement : .................................................. 53
3. Deputy K.M. Wilson : .................................................................. 53
4. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity :............................. 53
5. Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 54
6. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................. 54

10. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the Stabilisation Fund (OQ.80/2026). .......................... 55

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean (The Minister for Treasury and Resources): .................... 55 3.10.1   Deputy M.B. Andrews : .............................................................. 55

4. Questions to Ministers without notice - The Minister for Infrastructure............ 55

1. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South: ................................................ 55 Deputy J. Renouf of St. Brelade (The Minister for Infrastructure): .......................... 55

1. Deputy T.A. Coles : ..................................................................... 55
   2. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity :............................. 56

4.2.1 Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 56

3. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement : .................................................. 56
4. Deputy S.J. Gleave of St. Helier South: ................................................ 57
5. Deputy M. Tadier of St. Brelade : ...................................................... 57

4.5.1 Deputy M. Tadier : ...................................................................... 58

6. Deputy A.F. Curtis of St. Clement : .................................................... 58

4.6.1 Deputy A.F. Curtis : .................................................................... 58

7. Deputy A. Maltman of St Mary, St Ouen and St Peter: ................................ 59

5. Questions to Ministers without notice - The Minister for International Development ............................................................................................ 59

1. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity :............................. 59 Deputy C.F. Labey of Grouville and St. Martin (The Minister for International Development): .......................................................................... 59

1. Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 59
   2. Deputy L.D. Carpenter of St. Helier Central: .......................................... 59
   3. Deputy M. Tadier of St. Brelade : ...................................................... 60

5.3.1 Deputy M. Tadier : ...................................................................... 60

4. Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 60

5.4.1 Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 61

5. Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 61

5.5.1 Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 61

6. Deputy M. Tadier : ...................................................................... 61

5.6.1 Deputy M. Tadier : ...................................................................... 62

7. Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 62

6. Questions to Ministers without notice - The Chief Minister .......................... 62

1. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South: ................................................ 62 Senator L.J. Farnham (The Chief Minister): .................................................. 62

1. Deputy T.A. Coles : ..................................................................... 63
   2. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central: ............................................ 63

6.2.1 Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................. 63

3. Deputy L.D. Carpenter of St. Helier Central: .......................................... 63

6.3.1 Deputy L.D. Carpenter : ................................................................ 64

4. Deputy S.J. Gleave of St. Helier South: ................................................ 64

6.4.1 Deputy S.J. Gleave : .................................................................... 64

5. Connétable K. Shenton-Stone of St. Martin : ........................................... 65

6.5.1 The Connétable of St. Martin : .......................................................... 65

6. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity :............................. 65

6.6.1 Deputy H.L. Jeune : ..................................................................... 66

7. Deputy A.F. Curtis of St. Clement : .................................................... 66

6.7.1 Deputy A.F. Curtis : .................................................................... 66

8. Connétable I. Gardiner of St. Helier :................................................... 66

PUBLIC BUSINESS ............................................................................. 67

7. Amendment to Standing Orders - change from Government Plan to Budget (P.65/2026)................................................................................ 67

7.1   Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour (Vice-Chair, Privileges and Procedures

Committee): ............................................................................ 67

1. Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean : ............................................................ 68
2. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet : ................................................................ 68

ARRANGEMENT OF PUBLIC BUSINESS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS .................. 70

8. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour (Vice-Chair, Privileges and Procedures Committee): ............................................................................ 70

8.1   Deputy M. Tadier of St. Brelade : ...................................................... 71

1. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet : ................................................................ 71
2. Senator L.J. Farnham (The Chief Minister): ........................................... 71

ADJOURNMENT ................................................................................ 71

[9:31]

The Roll was called and the Greffier of the States led the Assembly in Prayer. COMMUNICATIONS BY THE PRESIDING OFFICER

The Bailiff :

1. Welcome to His Excellency the Li eutenant Governor

On behalf of Members, I should like to welcome His Excellency to the Chamber this morning. [Approbation]

2. Welcome to His Majesty's Solicitor General

I would also like to welcome, for her first sitting, His Majesty's Solicitor General. [Approbation]

QUESTIONS

2. Written Questions

1. Connétable I. Gardiner of St. Helier of the Minister for Social Security regarding an increase in the old-age pension. (WQ.148/2026)

Question

 Will the Minister explain –

1. why an increase in the old-age pension can result in a reduction in a pensioner's Income Support entitlement;
2. whether any part of such a pension increase is disregarded when calculating Income Support;
3. how many pensioners receiving Income Support have seen a reduction in their payments following the last old-age pension increase; and
4. whether any assessment in respect of Income Support has been made of the effect on pensioners of rises in rent, Parish rates, water, electricity, gas and food costs?

Answer

I am pleased to reassure the Connétable and Members that an increase in the Old-Age Pension (OAP) always leads to an overall increase in household income for a pensioner household also receiving Income Support.

(a) and (b): A person who receives an OAP and Income Support will always end up with a larger total weekly income when their pension goes up. As Income Support is designed as a top up to other household income, any increase in household income will lead to a decrease in the level of Income Support needed. The OAP is no exception.

However, 26% of pension income is excluded from the Income Support calculation. For every £10 of extra pension income, the Income Support top up reduces by £7.40 and the pensioner is £2.60 better off.

100. Every pensioner who receives Income Support and the OAP will have experienced this effect, but none of them will have seen an overall decrease in income. They will all have seen an overall increase in income as the pension payment increases by more than the corresponding decrease in the Income Support payment.
101. Close attention is paid to the effects of rises in the cost of living on pensioners. The OAP itself is always increased by at least the RPI(Pensioner) index for the June of that year. This year the increase will be 4.7%  whereas contributory  (Social Security) benefits paid  to  working  age contributors will rise by 4.1% in line with average earnings. Income Support component rates are increased in January, and the Minister will review cost pressures carefully before recommending the increases for the year.

Jersey pensioners on lower incomes also receive extra support with dental, optical and chiropody costs through the Pension Plus scheme and discounted visits to their GP. There are also schemes to support the costs of winter fuel, and a payment at Christmas. Pensioners over 75 may be eligible for a free TV licence. Pensioners who do not receive Income Support may qualify for the Community Costs Bonus.

2. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Chief Minister regarding work, research or reports of the Policy Centre Jersey. (WQ.149/2026)

Question

Will the Chief Minister advise what work, research or reports have been commissioned from the Policy Centre Jersey since its establishment in August 2023 by any department or body within the Government of Jersey, providing –

1. the title of each piece of work, the commissioning department and the date commissioned;
2. the cost of each piece of commissioned work;
3. which of these pieces of work have been published and where the public can access them; and
4. for any unpublished commissioned work –

1. the reasons it has not been made public; and
2. whether there is a timetable for publication of any outstanding work and, if not, why not?

Answer

Two reports have been commissioned from the Policy Centre Jersey since its establishment:

1. One report related to planning and reducing regulatory costs, and another on reducing red tape for local businesses.

These were commissioned by the Cabinet Office in August 2025.

2. Total cost: £22,000
3. Both are currently unpublished pending consideration by the new Council of Ministers.
4. Publication will take place following consideration by the new Council of Ministers. In the meantime, the reports will inform ongoing policy development.

In addition, payments of approximately £5,000 were made to the Policy Centre for their support in commissioning specialists in medical legislation and pharmaceutical practice to conduct an initial assessment of medicines and medical technology regulation. This work was commissioned by Heal th Care Jersey in November 2025. The work remains part of the ongoing policy process and the Minister for Heal th and Social Services will consider the best approach to publication of this work.

3. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development regarding revisions to the concession agreement between the Government of Jersey and DFDS. (WQ.150/2026)

Question

Will the Minister advise whether he is considering revisions to the concession agreement between the Government of Jersey and DFDS and, if so, what changes would he seek to make; and if not, why not?

Answer

There are currently no planned revisions to the concession agreement, but the agreement is kept under review at the regular, quarterly meetings of the Ferry Services Monitoring Committee of Government, DFDS and Ports of Jersey.

The Concession Agreement, which is available in the public domain, gives all parties wide breadth to deliver excellent ferry services for Jersey under its current terms and at this point, only 18 months into the agreement, I want to see a focus on this delivery rather than tinkering with the terms of the contract.

4. Deputy  K.M.   Wilson  of  St.  Clement  of  the  Minister  for  Treasury  and  Resources regarding Andium Homes funding. (WQ.151/2026)

Question

Will the Minister provide, in respect of Andium Homes –

1. the current level of funding required, and available, for its capital programme;
2. any funding received from Government in 2026 and the reason for such funding;
3. the annual debt-servicing costs (if any);
4. the cash reserve position;
5. any projected capital expenditure during this political term; and
6. the extent to which it has been assessed that its existing business plan remains financially sustainable over the political term;

Answer

1. Funding available:

The current level of funding is sufficient to support Andium's contracted capital programme and next immediate priorities, including the first phase of the major refurbishments at Les Cinq Chenes and Clos des Samares. Any further capital projects would require an assessment of available resources to determine whether additional funding is needed. The assessment would take into account Andium's Treasury Management Policy that requires a certain minimum level of available funds for risk management purposes.

2. Andium has not received any funding from Government in 2026. Andium has a number of contractual arrangements with Government relating to homes rented for healthcare workers, from which rental income has been received.
3. 86% of Andium's borrowing is at fixed interest rates through contractual and hedging arrangements. The latest forecast for interest costs in 2026 is £22 million. This amount may fluctuate depending on borrowing levels, which are influenced by cashflows from the capital programme and property sales, as well as changes in the wider interest rate environment affecting variable rate debt. Andium's Hedging Policy stipulates that no more than 30% of total borrowing may be subject to variable interest rates.
4. Cash requirements are managed through Andium's Revolving Credit Facility, which can be drawn upon with two working days' notice. As a result, Andium maintains relatively low cash reserves in order to minimise interest costs, fluctuating between £1m to £5m. The impact of holding cash is further mitigated through interest rate arrangements applicable to balances held in its bank accounts.
5. Forecast capital expenditure for Andium's contracted programme and immediate priorities covering the financial years 2027 to 2030 amounts to £163 million, including £131 million of new build and major refurbishment costs and £32 million of capitalised improvements to existing homes. A further £56 million is included within Andium's next priorities over the same period, subject to the necessary viability assessments being satisfactorily completed.

6. Andium operates a robust business model with frequent reviews and updates of their 40-year financial modelling to ensure ongoing investment in existing and new affordable homes remains financially sustainable. The model is regularly stress tested to assess the impact of changes in the macroeconomic environment, capital programme and sales programme. It is updated at least annually as part of their Strategic Business Plan process and their Board Strategy Day.

The business model includes provision to service and repay all borrowing with all borrowing, supplemented by the sale of affordable homes to First Time Buyers, funding the investment in new and existing affordable homes and serviced through the rental income on over 5,100 homes.

The Andium Board is responsible for managing the Company's finances, including monitoring debt levels and their serviceability. I receive regular reporting through the cycle of quarterly shareholder meetings and I am satisfied with the Board's governance of their finances and that their plan is well considered and financially sustainable.

The assurance over their financial sustainability  is  supported by the following metrics and mitigations:

• Asset Cover (asset values vs total debt value) is 299% (Gearing of 33%) and Interest Cover (income vs interest costs) 184%

• Each new project must meet strict financial viability including the associated borrowing costs.

• The Company operates a Board approved Treasury Management Policy with rules around the level of debt as a proportion of fixed assets, a funding strategy to determine the approach to managing debt and a minimum level of liquidity to ensure existing and anticipated cashflows can be met.

• The Andium Board is advised on these matters by professional debt advisors, EY.

5. Deputy V. Li of St. Helier North of the Minister for Education and Li felong Learning regarding the structure of her Department. (WQ.152/2026)

Question

In relation to her department, will the Minister –

1. provide an organisational structure chart (to include all Grade 11 or teacher- equivalent pay scale and above), showing reporting lines and distinguishing between central departmental posts and school-based leadership and teaching posts;

2. detail the number of full-time equivalent posts at each grade (Grade 11 and above), broken down by those filled substantively, those filled on a temporary or acting basis, and those vacant; and
3. advise, for each post filled temporarily, whether it is covered by interim or agency staff, the cost of that cover for the current financial year and whether active recruitment is underway; and
4. advise, for each vacant post, how long it has been unfilled, and whether active recruitment is underway?

Answer

Education  Chief Officer  Education Schools & College  CYPES  Central Services Based Posts

Chief Officer Directorate

Education  School  Education Policy and  Review  Reform

Strategy  and  Programme

1  x  Associate  1  x  Associate  1 x Director Director  Director

1  x  Head Teacher

2  x   Deputy  & Assistant  Head Teacher

19  x  Civil Servants

21  x  teachers working  across

Note: Teachers paid at TCH14 and TCH15 have been included, as the salary is equivalent to Grade 11. However, roles in the teaching workforce may also receive additional allowances for undertaking responsibilities beyond their core teaching duties. Schools are allocated individual budgets for these allowances and have discretion to apply them in line with their operational requirements, staffing structures, and educational priorities. These roles have not been included.

12

Agency / Interim / Secondments / Act ups

Recruitment Status

 No recruitment

requirement

No recruitment requirement

No recruitment requirement

No active recruitment

The costs associated with fixed term or acting up appointments are aligned with agreed published pay scales. Agency workers are engaged in accordance with established contractual arrangements and standard agency rates.

There are currently no live vacant posts within this group (roles equivalent to Civil Service Grade 11 and above). A live vacancy is defined as a role that that is actively being advertised for recruitment.

All established posts in the structure outlined in question (a) and (b) are either substantively filled, have an appointed candidate awaiting commencement, or are being covered through arrangements such as acting-up appointments or secondments.

Note, any future recruitment to a vacancy would be subject to approval through the Workforce Expenditure Approval Request (WEAR) process, which ensures workforce requirements are fully reviewed and authorised before recruitment activity commences.

6. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding 2 senior public servants leaving Government employment. (WQ.153/2026)

Question

Further to Oral Question 68/2026, in relation to two senior public servants leaving Government employment, will the Chair advise the specific dates when the States Employment Board received the business cases for the organisational changes which led to their departure?

Answer

The business cases relating to the two senior posts were presented to the current States Employment Board on 28th July 2026.

This resulted from work that commenced in August 2025, when the Chief Minister asked the Chief Executive Officer to begin examining the level of growth and expenditure in the public sector workforce between 2018 and 2024 and to provide advice to the Council of Ministers on options to streamline the public service. The expectation was that a model would then be considered for implementation by the new Council of Ministers after the 2026 election.

The changes enable the Government to coordinate the leadership, expertise and resources required to implement the Time To Win programme, a priority commitment enhancing Jersey's financial and related professional services sector. The change to one of these posts supports improved strategic coherence of the various Government teams that work with this sector. The other post change supports the new internal reporting lines of the regulation team.

7. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the States Grant full formula value. (WQ.154/2026)

Question

Will the Minister commit to ensuring that the States Grant to the Social Security Fund is reinstated to its full formula value before the end of this term of office and, if he cannot make such a commitment, will he explain why not?

Answer

Members should be in no doubt about my commitment, and that of the Council of Ministers, to ensuring that our Social Security system is properly funded and sustainable for the long term.

I cannot, however, responsibly commit today to restoring the States Grant to its full formula value before 2030, although I would hope that it may be possible to do so earlier if circumstances allow. Important strategic and actuarial reviews of the Social Security Funds are already under way and are expected to report in the Spring of 2027. Those reviews will provide updated long-term projections for the Funds and consider the appropriate balance between contributions and States funding, while recognising the important role of the Social Security Reserve Fund in providing resilience for future generations.

I do not believe that the Reserve Fund should be regarded as a substitute for appropriate ongoing funding of Social Security. It would therefore be premature to make a firm commitment on the precise level or timing of the States Grant before the actuarial evidence is available. Once the reviews have concluded, their findings will inform the Government's longer-term financial planning.

The temporary reduction in the Grant is due to end in 2030. If the evidence and the wider public- finance position support an earlier restoration, that should be considered.

Our objective is to ensure that Social Security is appropriately funded for the long term, while taking decisions on the basis of the best available evidence and maintaining responsible management of the public finances.

8. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development regarding streamlining the public sector workforce. (WQ.155/2026)

Question

Will the Chair advise what actions, if any, the States Employment Board intends to take to streamline the public sector workforce and Government services and if no actions are being considered, will he explain why not?

Answer

The States Employment Board will build on the actions already taken by the previous SEB and Council of Ministers to support a more efficient, affordable and sustainable public service, while protecting frontline services and focusing resources on the priorities that matter most to Islanders.

The recruitment freeze introduced in August 2024 will continue. This action has already delivered measurable results. It is estimated, based on the previous trajectory, that approximately 515 full-time equivalent posts have been avoided by the end of 2025. This is a saving equivalent to an estimated £31 million in annual staffing costs.

Actions will also be taken to simplify internal governance and accelerate digital transformation in order to work towards a leaner and more efficient public service, with greater focus on delivery rather than process.

Together, these actions form part of a wider programme to ensure that the public service remains affordable, proportionate and focused on delivery for Islanders. Further measures will be aligned with the Common Strategic Policy and set out through the Budget, but the direction is towards a public service that must become leaner, less complex and more cost-effective.

The States Employment Board will continue to oversee workforce controls and support departments to redesign services, securing recurring savings, whilst protecting frontline services.

9. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for the Environment regarding the current level of regulation of Jersey's commercial fishing industry. (WQ.156/2026)

Question

Will the Minister advise whether, in her assessment, the current level of regulation is detrimental to Jersey's commercial fishing industry; and will she detail what fishing legislation, if any, she intends to introduce during her term of office and whether any consideration will be given to reducing the administrative requirements affecting commercial fishers?

Answer

The question is something of short-term and long-term views. To use an example:

Do Jersey's Marine Protected Areas limit scallop dredging access? Yes, and in the short term that is detrimental to those boats.

However, in the medium and long term the areas now closed to dredging will generate more value to commercial fisheries through their role as nursey areas and spillover zones for commercial fish and shellfish species. It is also now available as a ground for fishing with pots, nets and by rod and line without risk of interaction with dredges and trawls.

Fishing is a complicated business from start to finish, be it buying a boat and a license and meeting the safety requirements of the Ports of Jersey registry to the challenge of finding, catching and selling fish and the reporting that follows. It's also a politically complex area where we have to manage in balance with the UK and EU as a result of the post Brexit Trade and Cooperation Agreement and through our Jersey-UK Fisheries Management Agreement.

Last month I asked my Marine Resources team to review and update the 1994 Sea Fisheries (Jersey) Law. They are tasked to look to simplify the law as best they can for fishers by reviewing and realigning the regulations that apply to them. This combined with the advisory booklets they produce and the brilliant Catch-Jersey logbook app they have developed will go a long way to simplifying the requirements put on our fishers.

Finally, I would highlight to the Deputy that I am lucky to have as a sounding board the Marine Resources Panel. made up of diverse islanders from the fishing industry, as well as fish merchants, recreational fishers, and scientists. This group has been instrumental in the formation of the island's modern fisheries management including the Ecrehous No Parlour Pot Zone currently lodged for debate and the measures relating to V notching lobsters and recreational pot limits that are being submitted for drafting.

Fishing is not farming. It is our last form of hunting and gathering, albeit with modern tools, when common goods are harvested it this way for private gain it must be done in the common interest. Unregulated fisheries in free markets have repeatedly resulted in stock collapse so while we will work to make things simpler it is in the islands interest to have a well-regulated, well managed fishery.

My department must try to ensure the long term sustainability of fish stocks in our waters which, in turn, supports the long term economic sustainability of the fishing industry. Short term regulatory practices will ultimately benefit the island into the future.

10. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour of the Minister for Social Security regarding minimum income standards. (WQ.157/2026)

Question

Will the Minister provide details of the work being undertaken into minimum income standards, cited in the Budget (Government Plan) 2025-2028 and started in 2025 by the Cost of Li ving Ministerial Group, such information to include, but not be limited to –

1. key dates for completion of the investigation;
2. what information the Council of Ministers has received so far;
3. when any results will be published;
4. whether the study is being used to inform the upcoming Budget; and
5. what household type categories are being used for financial modelling and the key information learnt about minimum income standards for each of those categories?

Answer

The Minimum Income Standard work was commissioned to Loughborough University who are seen as leading experts in this field. The work was originally due to be completed over the summer period 2026, however, there has been a slight delay to this, and Loughborough are now aiming to complete in the autumn 2026. Field work has been completed and currently the costing collections are being finalised. The outcomes of this work will be published in due course.

Ministers within the Department for the Economy have received updates on the timelines and delivery of the project. The Budget is currently being agreed for 2027, and work will then start on the Budget for the following three-year period. The information collected by Loughborough will give Ministers a new data set to help inform any future decisions.

Following  discussions,  expert  advice,  Scrutiny  feedback  and  Ministerial  input,  the  household categories have been chosen to reflect the Island's demographics, support evidence-based policy development, and ensure the results of this work are as meaningful and informative as possible.

11. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Chief Minister regarding the gender pay gap across Jersey's Arm's Length Organisations. (WQ.158/2026)

Question

Further to Written Question 276/2024, in relation to gender pay gap, and the adoption of P.31/2023, as amended, will the Chief Minister advise –

1. the gender pay and income ratio information available for each Arm's Length Organisation and Specified Organisation, as defined in the Public Finances (Jersey) Law 2019, for each year since 2023;

2. which Organisations have not published their income ratio information and what reason, if any, these Organisations have given for not publishing this information; and
3. what plans he has in place to ensure that the commitments made within P.31/2023, as amended, are upheld?

Answer

1. This answer relates to the Specified Organisations listed in Schedule 2 to the Public Finances (Jersey) Law 2019. The law does not define arm's length organisations.

Gender Pay Gap

The data has been drawn from annual reports and accounts. Negative figures indicate a gender pay gap in favour of women.

Income Ratio

This information is already available in the public domain in reports produced by the organisations. Relevant extracts are provided below together with the links:

Andium Homes

Andium Homes Annual Report 2025, p. 88 Andium Homes Annual Report 2024, p. 71

Andium Homes Annual Report 2023, p. 65

Jersey Post  

No income ratio data published in annual report Jersey Telecom  

Jersey Telecom Annual Report 2025, p. 19 Ports of Jersey  

Ports of Jersey Annual Report 2025, p. 45 Ports of Jersey Annual Report 2024, p. 35

Ports of Jersey Annual Report 2023, p. 60 States of Jersey Development Company  

States of Jersey Development Company Annual Report 2025, p. 45 States of Jersey Development Company Annual Report 2024, p. 51 States of Jersey Development Company Annual Report 2023, p. 62

Jersey Overseas Aid Commission

Jersey Overseas Aid Commission Annual Report 2025 p.46

2. The only Specified Organisation listed in Schedule 2 to the Public Finances (Jersey) Law 2019 that does not publish the gender pay gap information is the Jersey Overseas Aid Commission. This is because its small number of staff means that pay reporting could risk identifying individuals or produce distorted results due to the limited size of the dataset.

Jersey Post does not publish income ratio information in its annual report.

3. The States Assembly agreed in P.31/2023 that the Council of Ministers should encourage arm's length organisations and Specified Organisations to publish their gender pay and income ratio information.  

The Government continues to encourage organisations to meet the principles of good practice that are included in the Jersey Audit Office guide on annual reporting, including on gender balance and fair pay reporting, as soon as practicable.

There is no legislative or regulatory requirement to include gender pay information in annual reports of organisations that have key strategic relationships with the Government. There are no current plans to introduce such requirements in legislation.  

11. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Housing regarding the Minister's proposed review of the Andium Housing Gateway eligibility criteria. (WQ.159/2026)

Question

In relation to the Minister's proposed review of the Andium Housing Gateway eligibility criteria, will he advise –

1. the evidence, data or monitoring that has prompted his review of the criteria for applicants aged 18 to 25, and the intended timeframe for the review;
2. how many 18 to 25-year-olds have approached the Gateway since the current criteria came into effect and of those how many –

1. were referred on to other agencies or services, including those placed on the Partnership Pathway, including which agencies;
2. were provided with accommodation, including the timeframe;

3. were offered accommodation but did not take up the offer, including the reasons for any such refusal (if held);

3. whether the eligibility criteria reflect that Income Support is not available until 25 years of age, the corresponding impact on access to housing, and whether the review will consider alternative options for young adults who cannot directly access Income Support;
4. whether, in his assessment, there is sufficient accommodation stock available for this age group and, if not, what plans exist to address any shortfall; and
5. what specific provisions, if any, exist to support young adults returning to Jersey in accessing housing through the Gateway?

Answer

1. A review of the eligibility criteria set by the Minister for Housing for applicants aged 18 to 25 is underway  and  has  been  informed  by  operational  analysis  of  Affordable  Housing  Gateway applications from this age group since the reduction in the minimum age for access to social housing took effect on 4th February 2026.

As with any significant policy change, it is appropriate to review the policy's early operation and consider whether any adjustments are required.

The review is expected to conclude by early October 2026. It will consider whether there are opportunities to clarify or strengthen the policy, guidance and assistance available to this age group.

2. Since the reduction in the minimum age for access to social housing took effect, the Affordable Housing Gateway has received 60 applications from individuals aged 18 to 25 under the revised eligibility criteria. The following figures are correct as of 16th September 2026:

1. 8 applicants were referred to the Partnership Pathway, operated by Andium Homes, through organisations providing accommodation and support to young people, including the Shelter Trust's Strathmore 16-25 Project and JAYF, where they were homeless or at risk of homelessness.

A further 10 applicants were signposted to other organisations and sources of support. They did not meet the eligibility criteria or were unable to demonstrate that they met the affordability and tenancy- readiness requirements. None were assessed as being homeless or at risk of homelessness.

2. No applicants  have yet  been accommodated under the revised arrangements. However, 5 applicants are currently registered on the Gateway and will be made an offer when a suitable property becomes available.
3. Fewer than 5 applicants were offered accommodation but did not take it up. The recorded reasons relate to applicants choosing not to proceed.

Not all applications progressed to registration on the Gateway. Some applicants subsequently secured alternative accommodation in the private rented sector, did not respond to requests for information or chose not to proceed with an application.

3. Yes. The eligibility criteria for applicants aged 18 to 25 were developed in recognition that Income Support is not generally available to young adults unless they meet specific qualifying conditions, such as having responsibility for a child, being a care leaver, having previously lived independently for at least a year, being unable to remain in the family home or experiencing homelessness.

The criteria include an assessment of affordability and an applicant's ability to sustain a tenancy. This reflects the fact that some young adults may have more limited access to financial support and helps ensure that applicants are able to successfully manage a tenancy where social housing is the appropriate option.

Where a young adult is homeless or at risk of homelessness, the Gateway can support them to access alternative housing options and support. As part of the wider review, consideration will be given to whether there are opportunities to clarify or strengthen the current policy, guidance and support arrangements for applicants aged 18 to 25.

The review is limited to the Gateway, and it is not proposed to consider changes to Income Support or consider other support measures.

4. The housing needs of 18 to 25-year-olds are diverse and cannot be measured solely by reference to the availability of any single type of accommodation. Depending on their circumstances, young adults may require supported accommodation, move-on accommodation, social housing, private rented accommodation or, in some instances, be eligible and ready for assisted home ownership schemes.

Whilst I am satisfied that Jersey has a strong programme of social housing developments and assisted home ownership schemes, the availability of homes is only part of the picture.

Affordability, readiness for independent living and access to appropriate advice and support are also important factors in helping young adults access and sustain suitable accommodation.

The current review will help inform our understanding of the housing circumstances of younger Islanders and ensure that housing policy and operational support reflect their needs.

5. Young adults returning to Jersey are assessed through the Affordable Housing Gateway in accordance with the published eligibility criteria.

Applicants are generally required to have lived in Jersey for at least three months before applying through the Gateway, although exceptional circumstances may be considered.

There are no separate eligibility criteria for young adults returning to Jersey. However, returning applicants aged 18 to 24 can access the same support available to all young adults through the Gateway, including affordability and tenancy-readiness assessments, one-to-one support from a specialist officer and referrals to appropriate support services.

12. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the Minister for Heal th and Social Services regarding the new acute hospital project. (WQ.160/2026)

Question

In relation to the new acute hospital project,  will the Minister advise what project assurance framework is being followed and detail, in chronological order from January 2024 to June 2026, the assurances he received prior to signing the hospital build contract in June 2026, including the dates –

1. he obtained, or was due to obtain, the required assurances as set out in both the outline and full business case;
2. of any assurances he gave to the Council of Ministers; and
3. will he state the assurances outstanding at the time the contract was signed, the reasons why these were unavailable, and any assurances received after the contract was signed?

Answer

The response must first start with the end of the question, confirming, as did my previous Statement that assurance was concluded and satisfied on the Main Contract for the Acute Hospital and Full Business Case for the NHFP Phase 1. Moreover, this was additional to the assurance framework already in place for the NHFP which follows the Government of Jersey guidance and Public Finance Law related to Major Projects including (but not limited to) establishing management controls, independent oversight and engagement with Government colleagues. This framework was in place from January 2024 to June 2026 and continues today and would be recognised by Deputy Wilson as an evolution of the assurance and governance in place prior to that date.

Whilst I note that the present question relates to assurance, it is worth restating here some of the benefits that will be delivered to islanders from the NHFP Phase 1 including:

• Greater capacity to treat patients on-Island in the future

• Operational, patient and working spaces that support improved healthcare outcomes

• A greater ability to attract and retain staff

• Greater support for the development of staff skills including education and training

• External and internal spaces that increase accessibility, privacy and dignity for patients, visitors and staff.

Regarding the contract for the Acute Hospital, it was advised shortly before the planned date for signature that additional assurance would be required. As outlined in my Statement regarding the signing of the New Hospital Construction Contract dated 8 September 2026, an additional mechanism was agreed with the contractor to address this position. This took the form of an agreement that provided the Government with an ability to not proceed with the contract during a defined period whilst the additional assurance was completed, should that work identify any adverse and material matters. This approach enabled the contract to be signed whilst preserving appropriate safeguards and allowing the further assurance activity to continue. The additional assurance work was supervised by Treasury and Exchequer on the Main Contract for the Acute Hospital and FBC and included third party assurance that they represented Value for Money and were representative of the current healthcare market and global economic conditions. The additional assurance confirmed that it was appropriate for NHFP Phase 1 to proceed.

With regard to the Council of Ministers, the Main Works Delivery Partner Contract for Acute Hospital (Main Contract) and the progression of the NHFP were considered on a number of occasions prior to contract signature. Meetings took place on 14 April 2026, 5 May 2026 and 4 June 2026 specifically to discuss the Main Works Delivery Partner contract, update members of the Council of Ministers on the status of the Programme, consider relevant governance and assurance matters, and seek Council of Ministers approval to proceed. These meetings were supplemented and preceded by ongoing engagement with relevant Ministers and senior officers as matters developed. Together, they provided opportunities for collective consideration, challenge and scrutiny and formed an important part of the decision-making process. Council of Ministers subsequently supported the progression of the contract and completion of the associated processes required to proceed.

In addition, the Scrutiny process that Deputy Wilson oversaw as part of the Hospital Review Panel was also part of the assurance framework and included appointment of independent advisors.

Accordingly, the signing of the Main Works Delivery Partner contract should be viewed as the culmination of several years of assurance, scrutiny and development activity undertaken by the NHFP (and the three previous projects before it). The decision made has reflected advice from a wide range of  professional,  clinical,  ministerial  and  governance  stakeholders  and  was  reached  within  a framework that had provided ongoing review and challenge throughout the life of the Programme.

14. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding expenditure on the new healthcare facilities programme. (WQ.161/2026)

Question

Will the Minister provide details of the total expenditure to date on the development of the new healthcare facilities programme, including, but not limited to, expenditure on –

1. consultants and professional advisors;
2. design;
3. project management;
4. legal costs;
5. procurement; and
6. pre-construction enabling works?

Answer

The New Heal thcare Facilities Programme commenced in 2023 and has built upon work undertaken through previous hospital projects and programmes. Expenditure incurred since the commencement of the Programme totals £79.2 million. For context, £710 million was approved for delivery of the Programme in the 2025-2028 Budget and this allocation has been maintained in the 2026-2029 Budget.

The total expenditure incurred by year is set out below:

Initiative  Year  Expenditure  Notes

(£m)

New   Heal thcare 2023  38.3  As  published on page 70 of the  States  of facilities  Jersey  Group  2023  Annual  Report  and Programme  Accounts.pdf

The Programme's expenditure is recorded and reported against a number of cost categories. The breakdown of expenditure to date is set out below:

The expenditure categories shown above encompass the costs requested in the question, including consultants  and  professional  advisers,  design  and  technical  services,  project  and  programme management, legal and regulatory services, procurement and commercial activity, site acquisition and pre-construction enabling works and other building works.

Procurement costs are not separately identified and are included within Design Team/Advisor Fees with some elements of procurement activity being undertaken by the Government of Jersey team which is included in All Other'. In addition, the All other' category includes site acquisition (£17.6m in 2023 and £0.9m in 2024) and associated costs.

15. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding Andium Homes. (WQ.162/2026)

Question

Will the Minister (as shareholder representative) state, in respect of Andium Homes, the number of homes –

1. currently owned;
2. under construction;
3. expected to be completed by the end of 2026, 2027 and 2028 respectively, broken down by those that will be available for –

1. social rent;
2. affordable purchase; and
3. open market sale?

Answer

1. Andium currently owns 5,123 homes of which, for the purposes of answering part (c) of the question, 33 homes have been delivered in 2026.
2. Andium has 494 new homes under construction.
3. The table below sets out expected new home completions by tenure over the period requested:

58  omes of the 494 homes currently under construction will be completed in 2029.

16. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development regarding barriers preventing DFDS or Condor Ferries from operating inter-island. (WQ.163/2026)

Question

Will the Minister advise whether there are any barriers which would prevent DFDS or Condor Ferries from operating inter-island, and, if so, what action he will take to address any such obstacles?

Answer

There are no legal or contractual barriers which would restrict any operator from providing an inter- island service to Jersey.

Jersey's Sea Transport Policy allows any ferry operator to apply for a ramp licence to operate inter- island services between the Bailiwicks of Jersey and Guernsey. The Harbour Master can then assess the application, foremost on the basis of safety, and issue any ramp licence accordingly.

The Island's Concession Agreement with DFDS is publicly available and relates only to the Northern and Southern routes to the UK and France respectively.

I have held positive discussions with my counterpart in Guernsey and we are aligned on the need to work  together,  and  with  ferry  operators,  to  identify  opportunities  for  improving  sea  and  air connectivity between the islands.

17. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Education and Li felong Learning regarding the creation of a Strategy for embedding lifelong learning and skills. (WQ.164/2026)

Question

Will the Minister advise whether the creation of a Strategy for embedding lifelong learning and skills is being considered, and if so –

1. when such a Strategy would be implemented; and
2. whether pre-school education, compulsory school education, upskilling and reskilling in the workplace, and lifelong learning would be included, and if not, why not?

Answer

I recognise the importance of lifelong learning and skills development in supporting Islanders at all stages of life, from early years and compulsory education through to further and higher education, workplace training, and opportunities to upskill and reskill throughout a person's career.

Work is ongoing to determine priorities for this term of Government, and the Common Strategic Policy will provide the principal framework through which those priorities are articulated and progressed. As part of that work, I will continue to consider how best to support lifelong learning and skills development across the education system.

The Li felong Learning Review published by the former Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel earlier this year provides an important contribution to ongoing discussions about how lifelong learning opportunities can be strengthened in Jersey. The review identified a number of areas for  further  consideration,  including  simplifying  funding  arrangements,  reducing  barriers  to participation and improving access to retraining and upskilling opportunities.

I am keen to consider how the findings and recommendations of that review can inform future policy development and delivery. However, it would be premature at this stage to commit to the publication of a specific lifelong learning and skills strategy, a timetable for its development, or the precise matters that such a document might contain.

18. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Housing regarding a mixture of  young  and  mature  persons  in  the  same  apartment  blocks  in  Andium  Homes. (WQ.165/2026)

Question

Will the Minister advise whether consideration is currently given to avoiding placing a mixture of young and mature persons in the same apartment blocks in Andium Homes, and if no consideration is given, will he explain why not?

Answer

All social housing providers, including Andium Homes and the housing trusts, allocate vacant homes to applicants on the Affordable Housing Gateway, which is administered by Employment, Social Security and Housing. Applicants are prioritised according to their housing need and matched to suitable homes.

Age is not generally taken into account when allocating homes, other than on a small number of developments where age-related occupancy restrictions apply as a result of planning requirements. Social housing providers seek to support balanced and sustainable communities, including a mix of ages and household types. Any issues that arise are addressed through established tenancy and housing management arrangements.

I consider mixed-age communities to be a positive feature of many developments, bringing benefits such as stronger community cohesion, opportunities for mutual support and reduced social isolation.

19. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding the Island's bid to host the 2035 Island Games. (WQ.166/2026)

Question

Regarding the Island's bid to host the 2035 Island Games, will the Minister advise –

1. what the decision-making structure is for the bid and whether the Council of Ministers has approved its commitment to it;
2. which infrastructure projects have been identified as required to deliver the bid, as distinct from projects being pursued regardless of the bid's outcome, and the estimated cost and funding source, whether public, private, or partnership, for each additional project;
3. what assessment of accommodation capacity has been made, if any, and which hotels have been identified as accommodation for the athletes; and
4. the timetable for submitting the bid to the International Island Games Association, and what infrastructure or accommodation commitments, if any, must be confirmed before that submission is made?

Answer

1. No formal bid has been submitted to the International Island Games Association

(IIGA). The Council of Ministers agreed to submit an Expression of Interest at their meeting on 11th April 2024. Preferred bidder status will be assigned by the IIGA in 2028 before the submission of a formal bid at the 2029 IIGA AGM in accordance with the IIGA bidding process (Potential Bidding Islands | IIGA). Official agreement will be sought from the Council of Ministers in 2028 before a formal bid is submitted. It is important to note that, unless Jersey withdraws from the current process, preferred bidder status will be conferred on the island in accordance with the bidding process.

2. The infrastructure requirements associated with a Jersey 2035 Games will depend on the sports programme ultimately selected. No decision has yet been made on which sports would be hosted. This will be determined in conjunction with the Island Games Association of Jersey, relevant sporting bodies and Government stakeholders. It is expected that some venue enhancements will be required to support a Games bid. The final sports programme will take account of a range of factors, including affordability and deliverability.

3. No assessment of accommodation has yet been undertaken. It is anticipated that the bid will include a range of accommodation options to cater for varying budget requirements, including hotels, guest houses, B&Bs, youth hostels and campsites.
4. Please see (a) above regarding submission of a formal bid. The 2035 Games will be awarded at the 2030 Annual General Meeting of the International Island Games Association. The bid document submitted in 2029 must include:

- Organising/Bid Committee details

- Proposed list of sports together with sports venues and facilities

- Travel options

- Accommodation details including number of beds available and price ranges

- Games budget (including Games delivery and capital costs for new/upgraded sports facilities)

More information can be found here: Potential Bidding Islands | IIGA  

20. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Chair of the Comité des Connétable s regarding the Visites du Branchage. (WQ.167/2026)

Question

Regarding the Visites du Branchage, will the Chair advise –

1. whether the Comité des Connétable s is undertaking, or planning to undertake, a review of the Loi (1914) Sur la Voirie in relation to branchage, and if so, to what timetable;
2. what mechanism, if any, exists, or is proposed, to allow individual parishes to adjust Visite du Branchage dates or requirements in response to environmental stress, such as drought;
3. whether the Comité will consider introducing a penalty or sanction for landowners or contractors who cut hedgerows and banks excessively or in a manner that causes lasting damage, given that the current law only penalises failure to cut, not how the work is carried out;
4. whether Connétable s and roads inspectors currently have regard to the Wildlife (Jersey) Law 2021 and its bird-nesting season Guidance, which identifies March to July as high-risk for disturbance and recommends a phased sides-only/sides-and-tops approach, when scheduling or inspecting Visites du Branchage, and whether compliance with that guidance forms any part of checks; and
5. whether the Comité have engaged with environmental groups or the Jersey Biodiversity Centre on building greater ecological flexibility into the Law?

Answer

1. A project is underway by the Government of Jersey Department of Infrastructure, with the support of the Parishes, to review the Loi (1914) sur la Voirie, and which will capture the Branchage. A timescale is not currently available as this will be dependent on the review process, consultations and legislative drafting timescales;

2. Article 41(3) of the Loi (1914) sur la Voirie provides the statutory timeframes within which the Branchage is to take place being;

1. within the first three-week period from 24th June each year; and
2. within the first three-week period from 1st September each year.

As per Article 41(2) of the Loi (1914) sur la Voirie, the Connétable of each Parish will set

the date that the Branchage is to take place within each 21-day statutory window (three- week timeframe). This date can subsequently be changed, if required by the Connétable , but must be within the 21-day statutory timeframe (each set three-week period in June and September).

Due to the dry weather conditions in summer 2026, vegetation growth was minimal and any cut

backs' completed were within the Branchage requirements;

3. The branchage-booklet (entitled "Banque, Hedgerow and Tree Management" published on each Parish website) is an advisory booklet setting out guidelines on best management practice. This includes such matters as severity of cut of banques and hedges and, when reviewing the Loi (1914) sur la Voirie (as indicated in a) above), the Comité will consider whether it is appropriate to introduce into that law certain aspects now contained in those guidelines and, further, whether these should be enforceable by fines; and
4. Connétable s and roads inspectors take into consideration wildlife and bird-nesting seasons when  conducting  the  Branchage'. As  per  response  c)  the  branchage-booklet  contains Banque,  Hedgerow  and  Tree  Management  Guidelines  on  best  Branchage  Practice'. Additionally, it is noted that the Wildlife (Jersey) Law 2021 itself contains sanctions for breaches.
5. The Comité welcomes the engagement of all environmental groups during law amendment consultations and will do so when the relevant parts of the Loi (1914) sur la Voirie are reviewed. Members of the Environment Department have already been invited to attend the next Comité meeting.

21. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Housing regarding policy mechanisms to address empty residential properties. (WQ.168/2026)

Question

Following the adoption of the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel's Amendment to the Proposed Budget (Government Plan) 2026–2029 regarding developing policy mechanisms to address empty residential properties, will the Minister –

1. outline what analysis has been undertaken on empty homes to date, including any data gathered on the number, location and type of vacant properties in the Island;

2. advise which policy mechanisms have been explored to bring empty homes back into use, which of these have been selected for further development, and which, if any, have been ruled out; and
3. indicate when the findings of this work will be published, and what the next steps and timetable will be following publication?

Answer

a) Analysis undertaken to date includes the 2022 Action on Vacant Properties work, casework carried out through the Empty Homes Service (EHS) between 2023 and 2024, and a desktop review undertaken in July 2026 of a subset of addresses previously identified as potentially relevant to unresolved ownership and bona vacantia considerations.

The 2021 Census recorded 4,027 vacant dwellings, representing 8.3% of Jersey's housing stock. However, this figure should not be interpreted as the number of long-term empty homes requiring policy intervention. The 2022 Action on Vacant Properties report distinguished between overall vacancy and a smaller group of potentially long-term vacant homes and produced an illustrative estimate of approximately 900 properties that might be of policy relevance, whilst acknowledging significant limitations in the available data.

The EHS was established in January 2023 to improve understanding of long-term empty homes. During its operation, approximately 300 reports of potentially vacant properties were received. These reports were considered through a combination of ownership checks, site observations and reviews of possible next steps. The evidence gathered through the service suggested that vacancy was often associated  with  specific  barriers,  including  poor  property  condition,  heritage  considerations, unresolved ownership, succession and probate matters, redevelopment activity, and other financial, practical or legal barriers to occupation.

The October 2023 EHS update report included a geographical analysis of 260 properties reported to the service. Of these, 88 were in St Helier, 42 in St Peter, 29 in St Ouen, 25 in St Saviour, 19 in St Clement, 17 in St Lawrence and 15 in St Brelade, with smaller numbers reported elsewhere. The update identified concentrations in the north and west of St Helier, St Peter and locations along the south coast. It also noted that St Peter and St Ouen had been reported more often than might have been expected when compared with 2021 Census vacancy patterns.

The first 100 EHS case reviews identified 38 cases involving listed buildings and 36 cases involving properties considered to be in poor condition. However, vacancy was rarely attributable to a single issue.  Many  cases  involved  a  combination  of  factors,  including  heritage  considerations,  poor condition, redevelopment proposals, ownership matters and wider planning considerations. The evidence also demonstrated that reported properties were not necessarily representative of properties requiring intervention, as many were associated with sale, inheritance, refurbishment, redevelopment or other activity indicating a potential route back into occupation.

A desktop review undertaken in July 2026 of a subset of EHS addresses previously identified as potentially relevant to unresolved ownership or bona vacantia considerations found that many had since been sold, inherited, occupied, refurbished, redeveloped, actively marketed or were otherwise associated with activity inconsistent with persistent vacancy. While the review was limited and did not establish occupation in every case, it indicated that many properties had an existing route back into use, with only a smaller number potentially warranting further consideration where ownership remained unclear or unresolved.

The evidence gathered to date indicates that persistent vacancy is concentrated within a relatively small number of complex cases rather than being a widespread issue across Jersey's housing stock.

2. A range of policy mechanisms have been explored through the Action on Vacant Properties programme, the EHS and subsequent review work. These include:

• vacancy data collection and monitoring;

• a community reporting mechanism;

• the EHS;

• planning, heritage and land-condition interventions using existing powers;

• engagement with the Receiver General in ownership-failure cases;

• acquisition and redevelopment by States-owned entities;

• Empty Dwelling Management Orders (EDMOs);

• compulsory purchase powers;

• rates-based measures; and

• a new empty homes tax.

The most recent review focused on three areas for potential further consideration.

First, consideration was given to whether existing planning, heritage, enforcement and land-condition powers  may  be  relevant  in  relation  to  vacant  listed  buildings,  heritage-at-risk  properties  and properties in poor condition. Any further work in this area would depend on engagement with the Minister for Planning and Regulation, the availability of resources and whether intervention would be proportionate in individual cases.

Second, EDMOs were considered as a potential mechanism for properties that are persistently vacant, where ownership is known and there is no clear evidence of sale, refurbishment, redevelopment or another route back into use. The review concluded that the available evidence does not currently establish how many Jersey properties would be suitable for such a regime or whether the likely benefits would justify the legislative, operational and financial implications of introducing a new statutory power. The option therefore remains under consideration but is not being progressed at this stage.

Third, consideration was given to the development of a referral pathway with the Receiver General for a limited number of ownership-failure cases. Existing evidence suggests that this route may assist where unresolved ownership or succession issues are preventing a property from returning to use. One historic EHS case has already progressed through this route and is now being redeveloped for occupation as a family home.

Of the three options considered, the Minister for Housing concluded that the development of a referral pathway with the Receiver General represented the most proportionate and potentially effective option for further exploration.

The evidence does not currently support broad intervention across vacant homes generally. Previous work did not support the introduction of a new empty homes tax because of uncertainty regarding effectiveness and the significant administrative requirements that would be associated with such an approach.  

3. The findings of the July 2026 desktop review, together with consideration of the previous work undertaken through the Action on Vacant Properties reports and the EHS, were provided to the Minister  for  Housing  as  part  of  internal  policy  advice.  That  advice  was  intended  to  inform consideration of whether any further intervention in relation to empty homes was justified and, if so, what form it should take.

No standalone publication of this work is currently planned.

Having considered the available evidence, the Minister for Housing concluded that the development of a referral pathway with the Receiver General represented the most proportionate and potentially effective option for further exploration. This reflects the evidence gathered to date, which suggests that persistent vacancy is concentrated within a relatively small number of complex cases, including some where unresolved ownership or ownership failure may be preventing a property from returning to use.

The next step is therefore to explore the practical development of that referral pathway and to identify whether any remaining cases may warrant referral. Further validation of historic EHS casework would also be required before any additional policy development, legislative proposals or operational interventions are considered.

Should this work identify matters that warrant further policy development or ministerial action, the Minister for Housing would be pleased to update the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel and the States Assembly accordingly.

22. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the Revolving Credit Facility for Andium Homes. (WQ.172/2026)

Question

Further to Written Question 151/2026, regarding the financial sustainability of Andium Homes, will the Minister advise –

1. what proportion of the £130 million available to Andium Homes under the Revolving Credit Facility is committed or earmarked to cover existing contractual obligations;
2. the minimum required balance of the Revolving Credit Facility to ensure compliance with Andium Homes's Treasury Management Policy; and
3. the funding available to Andium Homes for new capital investments?

Answer

1. Andium Homes' existing contractual obligations are covered through a combination of borrowing and property sales. Of the £130 million of remaining liquidity, approximately £20 million, or 15%, is currently committed to meeting these obligations. This amount may change depending on the timing and value of property sales and other business transactions, including the proposed transfer of homes and tenancies from the Christians Together in Jersey Housing Trust ("CTJ").
2. The minimum required balance is not fixed. Under Andium Homes' Treasury Management Policy, it is based on forecast contractual capital expenditure for the next 18 months and 2 months of operating expenditure. The minimum balance therefore changes as these

forecasts are updated. The forecast funding required at the end of June 2026, the majority of which will come from borrowing, was £68m. With CTJ included, this increases to £86m.

3. New capital investments are subject to established viability requirements, including continued compliance with the Treasury Management Policy. This ensures that sufficient funding remains available to meet contractual capital expenditure over the next 18 months. Andium Homes currently has sufficient liquidity to fund its immediate priorities. Any further projects would be subject to a viability assessment when they are brought forward and would likely require additional funding.

23. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding Andium Homes' priorities for 2027 to 2030. (WQ.173/2026)

Question

Further to Written Question 151/2026, regarding the financial sustainability of Andium Homes, will the Minister advise –

1. what proportion of the £56 million allocated for Andium Homes' priorities over the period 2027 to 2030, can be funded from existing borrowing;
2. the additional borrowing and interest costs that will arise if this is insufficient; and
3. the projected annual interest costs for the period 2027 to 2030 under Andium Homes' current capital programme?

Answer

1. Andium Homes' priorities and existing contractual obligations are covered through a combination of borrowing and property sales. Of the £130 million of remaining liquidity, approximately £20 million, or 15%, is currently committed to meeting these obligations, with the liquidity returning to this position by the end of 2029. This amount may change depending on the timing and value of property sales and other business transactions, including the proposed transfer of homes and tenancies from the Christians Together in Jersey Housing Trust ("CTJ"). There is currently sufficient liquidity from the £130 million to fund the £56 million of these priorities.
2. The contractual obligations represent known expenditure under development agreements with the contractors. The associated borrowing requirement is therefore known, and sufficient liquidity would remain available should income from property sales be lower than anticipated.
3. Projected annual interest costs on the assumption the CTJ transfer has been completed:

2027: £25.6m 2028: £25.7m 2029: £25.8m

2030: £24.1m

24. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement of the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs regarding a detailed timeline of the actions required to bring forward Hate Crime legislation to the Assembly. (WQ.174/2026)

Question

Will the Minister provide a detailed timeline of the actions required to bring forward Hate Crime legislation to the Assembly, including all expected timescales and budget requirements?

Answer

I am committed to bringing forward hate crime legislation that is fit for purpose and appropriate for Jersey.

To ensure any proposals are evidence based and reflect the needs of the Island, I intend to consult with the public, victims, community organisations, criminal justice agencies and other stakeholders. The consultation will consider whether specific hate crime legislation is indeed required, which characteristics should be protected, and whether any measures would be proportionate and workable in Jersey.

Preparatory work is well advanced, and I expect the consultation to be launched in October 2026. It will remain open for 12 weeks, after which responses will be analysed and published.

Policy work on creating law drafting instructions will then begin and provision has already been requested within the legislative drafting programme for law drafting time.

While it is not possible to provide precise drafting timescales at this stage, my intention is to progress this work as quickly as possible and bring draft legislation to the States Assembly before the end of 2027.

Provisional timetable

• October 2026: Consultation launched

• January 2027: Consultation closes and responses analysed

• 2027: Policy development and law drafting

• By end 2027: Draft legislation lodged for States Assembly consideration At present, approximate budget requirements are as follows:

• Translating the consultation to Portuguese and Polish £285 and thereafter unknown costs associated with translating the responses.

• Additional licence for Smart Survey £344 pro rata for the year.

• No further costs have been identified beyond existing departmental resources and legislative drafting provision.

25. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour of the Chief Minister regarding the demographic of people who are permanently leaving the Island. (WQ.175/2026)

Question

Will the Chief Minister provide any data regarding the demographic of people who are permanently leaving the Island; and if this information is not currently collated, will he provide any relevant data that is available from existing sources such as Education, Social Security, Revenue Jersey?

Answer

The latest Population and Migration Report was published by Statistics Jersey on 23rd September and includes emigration rates (see Pages 30 and 31).

The Report is based on administrative data from departments, including Children, Young People and Education, Employment, Social Security and Housing, and Revenue Jersey. However, Statistics Jersey do not know whether someone has permanently left the Island.

In 2025, emigration continued to decline and is at its lowest level since detailed statistics began in 2017.

The interactive dashboard at Population | Statistics Jersey shows the numbers of people emigrating from Jersey, from 2017 to 2025, by age, sex, residential status and nationality. For example, emigration in each year by age group from 2017 to 2025 is as follows:

NB numbers in cells are rounded independently, so a row may not sum to the total Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement :

I want to seek your ruling on response to Written Question 160/2026, please, on the basis that I do not believe that the response to the directly relevant issues  raised in  the question have been specifically addressed.

The Bailiff :

I will give you a ruling in accordance with Standing Orders.

3. Oral Questions

1. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Heal th and Social  Services  regarding  the  contract  between  Bouygues  UK  and  the  Government (OQ.83/2026).

Further to the response of the Minister for Housing during Questions without notice on 8th September 2026,  will  the  Minister  advise  which  party  to  the  contract  between  Bouygues  U.K.  and  the Government, has responsibility for housing the construction workforce for the acute hospital, how many off-Island workers are expected during peak construction activity, and how many are expected over the life of the acute hospital build?"

Senator T.J.A. Binet (The Minister for Heal th and Social Services):

It is the Government of Jersey that is responsible for the provision of the accommodation for the construction workforce under the new contractual arrangements with Bouygues U.K. It is important to be aware that we have undertaken this work because it was deemed to be a significant delivery risk by all interested parties, and had we left it to them to provide the accommodation it would have been priced in very likely at a very significant premium, so we decided to take that on ourselves. In relation to the second part of the question, the number of construction workers will not be constant. The duration of the peak build period is approximately a year, with the numbers gradually building up to then falling away from that peak in the summer of 2028. The New Hospital Facilities team have already been provided with an estimate of the construction workforce mobilisation plans, which at their height are estimated to reach about 800 employees and subcontractors. However, that number includes the on-Island local workforce to be employed by the contractor. The split between local workforce numbers and off-Island numbers is subject to change, based on how the contractor procurement activity affects the balance of off-Island and on-Island employees and subcontractors. Over the lifetime of the acute hospital build, it is expected that 450 construction workers will commute regularly on and off-Island during the build, and around 150 will relocate on to the Island for the build period. Collectively, these may not be the same 600 individuals, because different trades and skills are going to be needed at different stages of the build. I hope that answers the question reasonably comprehensively.

1. Deputy H.L. Jeune :

I thank the Minister for that comprehensive answer. Could the Minister say if it is the Government's responsibility to house these offshore workers, where will they be housed? What is the plan of the Minister for where the accommodation will be? Where will they be housed and what types of housing will they be offered?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

I am not wishing to be flippant, it would be just about anywhere we can find. We would be working with the private sector. We have got a number of accommodation units available to the health service, which we are paying rent for, which have voids. That is unavoidable. We will try and make sure that everything that is within H.C.J.'s ( Heal th and Care Jersey) control is properly utilised, and we are doing some work with Andium to utilise anything that they may have available that is not required by local people. That is obviously a tricky one, but discussions are ongoing to finalise that work as we go forward.

2. Connétable I. Gardiner of St. Helier :

What assessment has been made of the effect on rents and availability for local family during the peak of construction?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

That is a very specific question. I am very happy to find that out and let the Constable know. However, I do not think this is likely .. it should not actually, superficially, I do not think have any effect on rents at all.

3. The Connétable of St. Helier :

If the Minister can indicate, because I might have missed the number, how many units will be required during the peak time?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

It is difficult. I have tried to break down all of the various factors that are coming into play here. I do not think it is possible to put a precise number at any given point. There will be a lot of variability and, as I say, the different contractors leading at different times, some on-Island, some off-Island, and it is going to be a management job throughout the course of the contract.

4. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central:

Given that we already know that there is a shortage of registered accommodation on-Island and organisations  such  as  the  Jersey  Hospitality  Association  report  that  there  is  a  shortage  of accommodation for their own workers, does the Minister therefore envisage that new accommodation will need to be provided to house these workers?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

At this point in time that is not envisaged.

5. Deputy L.V. Feltham :

I am struggling to see what the solution is to this issue. Does the Minister therefore think that the workers coming in on a fly-in fly-out basis are going to be sharing accommodation, taking up hotel accommodation or taking up accommodation that could be used by workers in other industries?

[9:45]

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

The plan is not to displace anybody. This is quite a complicated piece of work. It is difficult for me to carry every detail in my head, but I am very happy to organise a meeting for the people that are concerned  to  have  a  full  briefing  from  the  New  Hospital  Facilities  team,  who  do  a  very comprehensive job of work, and I hope I can allay their fears by virtue of that method. As I say, a lot of work has been done and I am very happy to provide a full briefing to anybody who has concerns.

6. Deputy V. Li of St. Helier North:

As a mother who has just been through all the school traffic just now to arrive here, will the Minister confirm whether the contractor's workforce plan includes the transport and parking arrangements so that the workers' vehicles do not add further pressure to St. Helier North?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

I think it has to be accepted when you can have that many people working on a project, some of them from outside the Island, that it will have to add to traffic congestion to a point. But there is a comprehensive traffic plan, and once again, for anybody who has got concerns about traffic, we have already met with a number of people, including the Constable of St. Helier , to provide briefings. If anybody wants a specific briefing on any element of the project we are very happy to provide this.

7. Deputy H.L. Jeune :

Thank you, Minister, for those assurances that we will get a further briefing. Why we asked the question is because the Minister for Housing, in his letter to the E.H.I. (Environment, Housing and Infrastructure) Scrutiny Panel was concerned about the impact on the rental market and the impact on  this.   Just  to  confirm,  Minister,  you  talked  about  talking  to  Andium  about  providing  the accommodation for off-Island workers. How many units have been put aside or been earmarked for off-Island workers, and how much is the budget for this?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

I do not believe there are any specific number of units that have been put aside at the moment. This is an ongoing piece of work, and we will only be able to use the accommodation from Andium at any given point in time that is not required by local people. I do not carry the figure for that project on the top of my head, but once again, I am very happy to provide that information later.

2. Deputy  L.M.C.   Doublet  of  St.  Saviour  of  the  Minister  for  Education  and Li felong Learning regarding the pilot scheme to provide free fruit to children in some primary schools (OQ.89/2026).

In relation to the pilot scheme to provide free fruit to children in some primary schools, started in 2024, will the Minister detail the outcomes of the scheme and advise whether it will be continued and expanded to other schools?

Deputy C.D. Curtis of St. Helier Central (The Minister for Education and Li felong Learning):

The free fruit provision was a pilot delivered in 4 primary schools between 2023 and 2025 to assess whether providing free fruit at break times would increase consumption and encourage healthier eating habits. While well received by pupils, parents and staff, and successful in raising awareness of healthy eating, it resulted in only modest increases in fruit consumption. The evaluation found strong support from parents, pupils and staff for increasing the availability, visibility and variety of fruit in schools. Rather than expanding the pilot, fruit was incorporated into primary school meals programme, providing all children in government primary schools with equitable access to fruit. Fruit has not been removed from the programme and remains part of the menu cycle, including fruit- based desserts that have replaced hot desserts on 2 days each week. Additional fruit is also ordered and may be offered on non-delivery days where surplus stock is available. This approach promotes healthy eating, makes effective use of public funds, and ensures access to fruit across all government primary schools. Uptake, consumption and feedback will continue to be monitored as the programme develops.

1. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :

I thank the Minister for her response. It is interesting to hear that the fruit has been kind of spread out, as it were, among all the schools. What I would like to know is, in terms of the measures, the Minister mentioned that increased consumption of fruit was the target measure. Were there any other positive measures that were identified? For example, helping families with the cost of living.

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

The other measures were mainly just gathered from feedback from parents, staff and children themselves. Apart from that, like I say, there was .. the problem was there was a lot of wastage, basically. So it did seem much more sensible to incorporate it into the school meals programme, and this is what parents actually asked for.

2. Deputy K.F. Morel of St. John, St. Lawrence and Trinity :

I was wondering if the Deputy could advise us during that pilot what proportion of that fruit was sourced locally from local producers.

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

The pilot was delivered by a local provider. The proportion of fruit from grown locally is impossible to know because it would be a very low quantity. Jersey imports 90 per cent of its food overall, but it was managed by a local provider, and the fruit that is in the primary schools now is continuing to be managed by a local provider.

3. Deputy K.F. Morel :

The Deputy made mention to the new contract for school lunches; with regard to that contract, how much of that is local produce? Not the local providers, but local produce actually grown in Jersey?

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

I think I will be answering a question on that shortly, but the food actually grown in Jersey is something that we are pressing the provider to give us more details on and work towards. At the moment there is not really local food sourced for that, but we are pushing for that to happen.

Deputy H.L. Jeune :

Deputy Morel asked the question that I wanted to ask about local fruit.

4. Connétable I. Gardiner of St. Helier :

If I understood correct from the Minister's answer that the fresh fruits were substituted for fruit-based desserts, and if this is correct, would the Minister consider that actually fruit-based desserts have higher sugar and less nutritional benefit than the fresh fruits and how the decision would be made?

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

No, I cannot have described that correctly. There will be fruit-based desserts on 2 days a week and there is fresh fruit on 2 days a week as well.

5. The Connétable of St. Helier :

If the Minister confirmed that fresh fruits are 2 days a week, would the Minister consider sourcing these fresh fruits from the Jersey growers, as this scheme also can support local farming?

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

The fruit is sourced from a local provider. I will look into this more to see if the local provider can source more locally-grown fruit. It is not a big thing in Jersey at the moment, I do not think. But the aim will be to see if we can get more locally-grown food in there.

6. Deputy M. Tadier of St. Brelade :

While I wish the Minister good luck in sourcing local bananas, pineapples [Laughter], mangoes and guavas, and not wanting to add to the micromanagement that the States Assembly might be seeking to do today, could I ask whether any scope has been given to considering the possibility of schools growing their own? Not that it would necessarily provide sufficient amounts, but it would be useful if more schools could be growing in-season fruit, which they could then add to their menus potentially.

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

Many of our primary schools do have an area where they grow some fruit and vegetables. I can remember not long ago seeing the patch at Grouville School, which was lovely with lots of healthy foods growing there. So I think it is something to be encouraged.

7. Deputy V. Li of St. Helier North:

As much as we could laugh about whether Jersey can provide and grow bananas, I think climate change is one of the things that we can consider. As a matter of fact, I know Jersey can grow bananas. Whether that is locally grown or not, I think one of the points is that this pilot scheme was supposed to help with the children's healthy dieting. As much as I understand the children would enjoy fruit and also dessert, what else are we going to do for the children to help them to actually grasp the whole idea of healthy dieting?

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

There is much work done in schools about healthy eating by one of our locally based organisations already. As for locally grown fruit being provided in schools, we have to bear in mind that 2,360 meals are provided per day. So I do not think we are going to get locally-grown bananas to all those children.

8. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :

I would ask the Minister if we could perhaps have a conversation about this, because I believe that there might be more that the department could do. Having listened to parents from Plat Douet School, mainly in my Parish, they are desperately missing this scheme. Would the Minister consider the cost of living as an additional factor? Would she agree to go back and look at the outcomes of that scheme and factor in that the cost of living has gone up considerably in the 2 years since the scheme started, and perhaps take another look at what could be done?

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

Yes, I would be happy to discuss this with the Deputy . Thinking about the cost-of-living pressures, we have to remember that these meals are provided to many children at no charge at all and those who pay for it only pay £2.50, which is a lot less than it would cost to buy a packed lunch. There was another question, I think? No? OK.

3. Deputy  V.   Li  of  St. Helier  North  of  the  Minister  for  Infrastructure  regarding  the Northern Sewer Network Upgrades (OQ.82/2026).

Will the Minister advise whether any traffic and road-safety impact assessment has been undertaken of  the  Northern  Sewer  Network  upgrades,  hospital  construction  works  and  other  planned developments in St. Helier North and if so, will he publish it; and if not, will he commission such an assessment, including consultation with residents and schools, before further temporary traffic arrangements are approved?

Deputy J. Renouf of St. Brelade (The Minister for Infrastructure):

I thank the Deputy for the question, which I think gets to the point of the cumulative nature of the work that is going on in that area of the Island. There is no single cumulative impact assessment covering all the planned works that are underway in St. Helier North, but cumulative traffic road safety and access impacts are considered through the assessment and approval of each individual scheme. In other words, each scheme must take account of what is already going on in putting forward its own traffic management plan. This approach has been applied to both the Northern Sewer Network upgrades and the hospital project, and officers will continue to co-ordinate future traffic arrangements and engage with affected stakeholders as works progress. On that basis, I do not propose to commission or publish a separate overarching assessment, but would reassure Members and the public that the nature of the interactions between the different schemes are fully considered.

1. Deputy V. Li :

First of all, I thank the Minister for visiting Abbey Close, and that really gave the residencies the reassurance. I also visited the site yesterday trying to understand whether the commitment from the contractors that they are pushing forward with the works faster and also the .. I was delighted to see that the parking issues have all been solved as well. Considering how much effort that we have been putting together as Deputies from St. Helier North, Connétable and also yourself, will the Minister agree that this kind of approach taken at the Abbey Close, meeting residencies on site before restrictions take effect, should become the standard for all works in St. Helier North or even further across the Island? If not we are going to have the cumulative assessment, will he commit to that?

Deputy J. Renouf :

I have a vision of my diary suddenly filling up with meetings for every traffic scheme in the Island. I would commit to maintaining an engagement with all the representatives in the areas and with residents, whether it is through me or through officers. I have further meetings planned in the north to do with the northern sewer upgrades connection with meeting businesses who have been affected and also a separate meeting with residents. I have a meeting tomorrow night with residents in St. Peter 's in connection with that scheme. I am trying my best to stay across these issues. I think the Deputy 's question to me though raises an important point, which is that these schemes are dynamic. They change and the adjustments change in response to that.

[10:00]

So these schemes are continually adapting to the changed circumstances. I am very pleased and grateful to the Deputy for her work in co-ordinating with the residents of that particular area in St. Helier North that I visited at the end of last week. Because I think that shows how we can adapt schemes when we understand the particular concerns that people have in a particular area. I will certainly commit to continuing to try and do that to the best of my ability.

2. Connétable I. Gardiner of St. Helier :

First of all, I would like to say thank you to the Minister, because the Minister did engage, and also to his team that attended the public meeting as the first instance. I am welcoming further meetings that will be put in place. My one question is very quick, if the Minister has a response. Work area 8 by Greenacres and Sion is due to finish mid-October but we know that it is delayed, do we have final revised day and how residents will be told.

Deputy J. Renouf :

I think the Constable is referring to what is known has phase 1(b) of the works, which was delayed by a conflict that was identified with a Jersey water main, and that led to a stop work notice being issued to the contractors because the conflict with the water main was meant that it was unsafe to work without the risk of damaging that water main. I have to say the co-operation with Jersey Water was excellent. They attended immediately and a new water main was put on the surface .. a temporary water main on the surface and every property connected up, and work was restarted earlier this month in fact with that having been done. So the answer to the Constable's question is that the current total completion date for that area, we think is going to be the end of May, and that is a slight improvement on the end of June, which is what we thought when this conflict was first identified. So the end of May is the current conclusion date.

3. The Connétable of St. Helier :

As the Minster indicated, everything is dynamic, so we expected to end mid-October, now it is May, but this is going back to Deputy Li 's question, how we ensure that the new traffic management plan would be created for that part of the Island. Because the beginning of the hospital construction now will meet with the major roadworks in St. Helier that were not planned to be undertaken at the same time. So there are 2 schemes now coming together. Would the Minister present to residents, to Deputies, to the public, how these 2 teams will interact now?

Deputy J. Renouf :

Well,  I  can  certainly  say  that  the  officers  connected  with  the  hospital  project  and  with  the infrastructure teams will be liaising very closely to ensure that we make sure that the projects are co- ordinated. I would make a broader point. I understand the disruption is considerable for residents and it is going on longer than we anticipated, and that is obviously very difficult for the people concerned, and I apologise for that. But these works are, first of all, essential. I think everybody accepts that. It is work that has to be done. We are catching up with backlogs. We are also trying to enable essential developments to take place and so on. So I think that is important to say. But I think the other important thing to say is that although projects like this reveal themselves and experienced by the public as extreme disruption, they are routine in the sense of officers dealing with these kinds of matters. It is not unusual for major infrastructure projects to overlap. We often have private developments take place alongside public developments, and the aim is to continually monitor them, continually assess what is happening in each one. Traffic arrangements change for each one on a week-by-week, sometimes day-by-day basis. We will stay across it. I do commit to stay involved and in contact with Members of the Assembly who bring problems to me, and I will do my very best to ensure that we deal with them.

4. Connétable A.N. Jehan of St. John :

The Minister confirmed that there was some 7 public meetings held before works commenced, and will he also agree with me that it is not good in 2026 to have 28 per cent of homes in St. Mary , 26 per cent of homes in Trinity , and 23 per cent of homes in St. John not connected to mains drains when there are only 2 per cent in St. Helier ?

Deputy J. Renouf :

I will take the Constable's word for the 7 meetings; I was not Minister at that time. But in relation to the broader question, I think it is certainly important that we do extend the networks. The drains network is obviously under our control directly. The water network is under the control of Jersey Water, but we obviously also have significant influence. I think that is a question that will be addressed through Investing in Jersey and the Capital Investment Fund, and I very much hope we are able to see some progress.

5. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement :

I wondered if the Minister would give some thought to whether or not we are now at a point where they  may  need  to  be  a  strategic  review  of  all  of  the  arrangements  around  construction  and infrastructure works in that area. Given that we have got the upgrade to the sewer network, we have got the hospital construction site coming on, it seems to me as though we have got quite a lot of people trying to replace a lightbulb, and I just wonder whether or not to co-ordinate and make sure that there is a better oversight and co-ordination of the works, that there is room for some discussion or even exploration as to whether there is a different way to undertake this work?

Deputy J. Renouf :

I think I have addressed quite a bit of that in the answers I have already given. I think there are 2 levels to address this at. One is at the level of officer working, which is the level of making sure that the right people are talking to each other, they are following the processes, which by the way are available on the Government website. So you can see what the process is that the officers go through. I think the other aspect of it is political in the sense that it is clear from questions and the correspondence I receive that this is a significant public issue. Deputy Andrews just suggested an idea that I might meet regularly, maybe once a month, with representatives of the affected areas. I think that could be one potential way of doing it. I think the key thing is that most of these things get resolved when we keep talking, and certainly that was the case in relation to Abbey Close. It was a

period of intense engagement, and my inbox was happily empty this morning on Monday when that particular closure took place. So I would hope that we can manage it that way, and I hope the Deputy can see that there is plenty of work going on to try and ensure that we do respond to people.

6. Deputy K.M. Wilson :

I understand the position that the Minister has taken in relation to resolving issues on a one-to-one basis at this moment in time, but we are about to enter a phase of development that is significant for the Island in terms of accommodation, transport, building works, connections across the Island for people getting to school, work, et cetera, and also supplies coming into the Island. Would he give some thought as to whether or not the current processes that he outlines are sufficient, or does he believe that there is time for a strategic review of how we are going to manage this going forward?

Deputy J. Renouf :

I think I can happily commit to the first part and perhaps express more caution about the second. I do think the Deputy is raising an important point here. There is going to be a lot of work going on, and I think we need to accept it is going to be disruptive. There is absolutely no question about it. Building the biggest construction project in the Island's history is going to involve disruption. It is going to be difficult for people, and I fully understand and accept that. The question of whether we should strategically review that is one I would hesitate with. I think the processes we have in place to manage the conflicts that will arise are good, and I would rather have a dynamic response rather than one that sits at an overarching strategic level which would quickly potentially become out of date. So I would rather go down the route that I have suggested. As the Deputy referenced in the first part of her question, I will continue to give thought to the matter and to respond as the situation develops, but that is the best I can offer at the moment.

The Bailiff :

Final supplementary, Deputy Li ? No?

4. Connétable  I.   Gardiner  of  St.  Helier  of  the  Minister  for  Sustainable  Economic Development regarding a social enterprise framework (OQ.85/2026).

Will the Minister advise whether he intends to develop a social enterprise framework, and if so, when he expects the framework to be published and implemented, and if not, will he explain why not?

Deputy F.G. Voisin of St. Helier North (The Minister for Sustainable Economic Development):

Can I thank the Connétable for her question and assure her that both my Assistant Ministers and I do recognise the important role that social enterprises provide in modern economies. There is currently a gap in legislation to provide a legal distinction for social enterprises. I am sure that the Connétable and Members will appreciate that the Companies (Jersey) Law 1999 and the Charities (Jersey) Law 2014 currently fall under the remit of the Minister for External Relations, although I understand that the Charities (Jersey) Law 2014 is in the process of being transferred to the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs. I give an undertaking to raise this matter with these Ministers to take forward any legislative changes.

1. The Connétable of St. Helier :

From my recognition from the previous term, it was led by the Minister for Economic Development because it does contribute, I would say, to the economy. For example, U.K. (United Kingdom) has now 37 community interest companies, Scotland has added £3 billion a year, so I would like to hear who will be leading this work within the Council of Ministers, if not the Minister for Economic Development?

Deputy F.G. Voisin :

I think it is important to recognise that there is a structure available for organisations that wish to qualify or be a social enterprise, and that is a structure that is commonly used. What happens is that a charity will obviously register as a charity and then if they wish to have a commercial arm to raise revenue, then they establish a company. The issue is that it is rather clunky. There is lots of bureaucracy, not only in establishing a charity, but also then establishing a company, and a social enterprise would give a one-fix solution to this. But it does need to be nestled within some sort of legislative framework, quite simply because a social enterprise would seek to operate as a commercial organisation, but at the same time receive donations to their charitable cause and receive a tax rebate, but of course that unfortunately is not available to businesses operating as a commercial organisation. So I do think it is important that a legal framework is put in place, and that does have to be done with those people that are responsible for those laws, and of course, the Minister for Treasury and Resources must also be involved because there may well be some reduction in taxation.

The Connétable of St. Helier :

I did not receive the answer to my question. My question was, who is responsible? Who is going to lead this work?

Deputy F.G. Voisin :

Well, I would have thought that as the legislation rests with the Minister for External Relations and, soon, the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, I think it will ultimately rest with those people. But I think that this is a good example of how the Council of Ministers need to work together, and I am giving the Connétable an undertaking that I will bring this forward to push it along.

2. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity :

I think there is some confusion in some of the answers that you are giving at the moment because it is understandable there needs to be at some point a definition of social enterprise. But there has been a pilot already done that the former Minister for Economic Development put forward, which was the S.E.E. (Social, Environmental and Economic) Enterprise Pathway pilot, and there was a clear report that was published afterwards saying about the positives and negatives that came from that pilot. The report says that any framework should include funding accreditation and business support co- designed with the sector. So that goes beyond just having a definition.

[10:15]

Could the Minister first say whether that is something that he will be taking forward, taking on the report from this pilot, and whether he has any plans for any of those issues around funding accreditation and business support that was raised in the final conclusions of the pilot?

Deputy F.G. Voisin :

I am aware of the pathway pilot, and to be honest, I was surprised that there was no recommendation that this needs to sit within some sort of legal framework. The pilot involved quite a number of people who were looking at establishing social enterprise and indeed operating similar organisations in Jersey. All I can say is that I will look again at the report, which I have read, and discuss this with the Minister for External Relations to take this forward.

3. Deputy H.L. Jeune :

I was wondering if the Minister could explain whether he believes social enterprises are as an important part of the economy of Jersey and whether he would be supporting and championing them going forward.

Deputy F.G. Voisin :

I champion all efforts to grow the economy, and if this is done through social enterprises then I am the champion. I think what is important to understand also is that organisations that wish to act as a social enterprise are able to do so today, as I said, through the structure of having a charity and then the underlying business to operate as a commercial enterprise. As I said before, it is a bit clunky but it is possible and indeed there are examples; I think the Beresford Street Kitchen operates in just that way.

4. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central:

I am somewhat confused by some of the Minister's answers. I wonder if he could clarify what in his mind the definition of social enterprise is.

Deputy F.G. Voisin :

Certainly. It is an organisation that is run for the benefit of society and to address a particular need in society. My understanding is that part of the organisation operates as a commercial business. But the money that is raised is used for charitable purposes.

5. Deputy L.V. Feltham :

Does the Minister also agree that the current legislative framework is not fit for purpose for organisations that wish to be a social enterprise?

Deputy F.G. Voisin :

I think I have said twice already that it is a bit clunky. It is overly bureaucratic because organisations have to register as a charity and as a business.

6. The Connétable of St. Helier :

Going back to the charity, the Charities Law is deliberately tight and charity funds cannot pay for trading beyond charitable purposes. Where does he expect admission that business that cannot or will not become a charity to go?

Deputy F.G. Voisin :

Sorry, could the Connétable repeat the question, please? The Connétable of St. Helier :

I will simplify the question. The Charities Law is very precise and very tight. The social enterprise that would like to trade and have admission and can deliver and do not have a framework, do not have legislative framework and legislation, where do they need to go? How they would operate legally delivering a needed outcome for our economy and for the public.

Deputy F.G. Voisin :

As I have explained, a charity can operate a commercial enterprise, and there are charities in Jersey that do. But the commercial enterprise part of the organisation needs to be operated within a company. As I have said, there is Beresford Street Kitchen. I understand that Durrell have a similar organisation. Social enterprises can operate in that structure but, as I say, it is onerous from a regulatory perspective. As the Connétable quite rightly points out, the Charities Law is cast tight. It does not give the options to do various functions which may be desirable.

5. Deputy L.D. Carpenter of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Education and Li felong Learning regarding the procurement process that took place in appointing Apetito to provide hot school meals for Government primary schools (OQ.81/2026).

Will the Minister explain the procurement process that took place in appointing Apetito to provide hot school meals for Government primary schools and advise whether any local companies were considered during the process?

Deputy C.D. Curtis of St. Helier Central (The Minister for Education and Li felong Learning):

The contract for the primary school meals programme was awarded following a formal tender procurement process in accordance with Government of Jersey procurement requirements. The tender was open to all eligible suppliers, including local companies, and local organisations did participate in the process. Importantly, suppliers were not required to submit a proposal covering all 22 primary schools under a single delivery model. The tender deliberately allowed flexibility in how services could be delivered, recognising the differing infrastructure and operational arrangements across schools. Bids were assessed against published criteria, including nutritional quality, social value, deliverability, resilience and value for money. The assessment was not based on whether a supplier was local or off-Island but on which proposal offered the strongest overall solution for Jersey's children, families and schools. Following a full evaluation against the published criteria, Apetito achieved the highest overall score and was, therefore, awarded the contract.

1. Deputy L.D. Carpenter :

Given that awarding government contracts to local companies boosts the Island economy and reduces capital  leakage,  could  the  Minister  please  confirm  whether  local  companies  are  awarded  any additional weighting within the procurement process or if it is simply a level playing field to all?

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

My understanding of the procurement process is that there is no additional weighting currently but there is a section around social value. Social value includes looking at opportunities for local employment,  training  and  other  skills  opportunities.   There  is  a  consideration  there  for  local companies. To point out though no bidder, including local bidders, proposed a wholly fresh locally- produced model capable of delivering meals at the scale required. The local bids we did receive also relied on imported meals from off-Island suppliers.

2. Deputy K.F. Morel of St. John, St. Lawrence and Trinity :

I am just wondering if this contract included any element which requires either the purchasing of locally-produced food or a pathway to greater purchasing of locally-produced food through the length of the contract.

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

The procurement process itself does not cover that but what I have done in the past while in Scrutiny and have continued to do in my Ministerial position is to request that the successful bidder looks into obtaining more local produce through their wholesale supply as much as they possibly can.

3. Deputy K.F. Morel :

Does the Minister recognise that one of the strongest and fastest ways to encourage the use of local produce is through government contracts, such as school or hospital feeding programmes? Is that something that is understood by the Minister?

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

Yes, of course. But, unfortunately, all the people who applied, even the local organisations, were going to import food from outside of the Island.

4. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour :

I am struggling a bit because my question was also asked by Deputy Morel . In terms of the local suppliers - and it does seem that the appetite, as it were, across the Assembly is to encourage this - is there any way that perhaps your department could link up with another department and look at the Rural Support Scheme and the funding that is going there and have some kind of pathway to more local produce being distributed, rather than just settling on this contract?

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

I think work towards a pathway would be a very beneficial thing to do. But at this stage we needed to ensure that there would be safe, nutritional and a steady supply of school meals over the next few years, so that had to be the priority. But it would be a very interesting course of action to liaise with others to see if there can be some progress towards more local food supply. I am encouraged to think that there are new people coming into the agricultural industry. I can see that there is progress there. But at this stage, our priority had to be the supply of school meals that would be steady and continue over the next few years.

5. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :

It is really good to hear that the Minister is open to that. Is there perhaps a set point that the Minister could review that and look at the landscape in the agricultural sector in Jersey and determine whether some progress could be made?

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

I do not really think I can answer that question because it would depend on how I can work in with others as well, but I think it is an interesting idea.

6. Deputy S.J. Gleave of St. Helier South:

Is the Minister aware that when Apetito was originally awarded the contract, so when they first came into the Island, Caring Cooks was also a bidder, a bid that included fresh food being cooked from scratch, rather than microwaving meals brought in the from the U.K.? Given we are trying to teach children about how to prepare food, is it a good example to be showing them that this is how meals are prepared; you simply microwave a meal?

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

First of all, they are not simply microwaved. These are highly nutritional meals which have been passed by Jersey's food standards for primary schools and recognised as the best option by Public Heal th. They are the best way for us to continue. As for the Deputy 's comments about Caring Cooks, I do not particularly want to discuss individual organisations in the Chamber. But I can say that Caring Cooks themselves have published recently online a statement about how providing meals on this scale is such a huge undertaking. They believe it is positive to see the service that they helped establish now reaching children across the Island. We have had very good feedback from local organisations about how we are continuing. Also, that organisation continues to provide meals at the moment in the schools and also does so in secondary schools and does other very good work in the schools.

7. Deputy V. Li of St. Helier North:

I agree with almost every single person having discussed about social enterprise earlier, and I agree with Deputy Voisin 's idea of collective effort. Again, because I think ultimately is that we want to promote the competitiveness of our local business. I think, back to this school meal, is a great example how we can use this as a pilot scheme to see where the gaps are and how we can deliver it collectively. I wondered if the Minister for Education and Li felong Learning would willingly take this as an opportunity to look through and to work collectively with other Ministers on this project.

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

Yes, I think I have already said I would be happy to work with other Ministers and aim to source more local produce. I think the main point to keep in mind is that this has been an extremely successful project. It is now delivering thousands of nutritious hot meals every day to children, some who receive them as free meals and other families pay £2.50 for a hot main meal and a dessert. From its start in 2019 in 4 schools and now the roll out across all primary schools, it has been an extremely successful project.

8. Deputy V. Li :

I think I just want re-emphasise, I am not debating whether this is a good project or not. Because I believe that providing hot meals to the children, particularly the ones who are struggling with cost of living, is crucial. I want the kids to be able to study when they have a full tummy.

[10:30]

What I am trying to understand is, I do not want to discuss further about how long the contract with this food provider has been signed or whether we have potential to grow with local business, I think my question is more about if this contract is not signed longer than 4 years' time, are we able to look into the possibility of engaging children with local-grown food, local business and then tie it into all the things that we are trying to do to promote the local economy? Because I believe that Time to Win is not just for the finance sector, it needs to be looked at across the whole Island.

The Bailiff : Your question is? Deputy V. Li :

Where the Minister take this as initiative and to look into the possibility of looking at how the local companies can get involved under the framework of a social enterprise, as we discussed earlier.

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

I think I have already answered the question that I am happy to look into developments of more local enterprises.

9. Deputy L.D. Carpenter :

The Minister mentioned that social value is one of the evaluated criterion. Could the Minister please elaborate a little on what is meant by social value and what kind of things are considered?

Deputy C.D. Curtis :

I think I will have to get back to the Deputy on that because I am not that knowledgeable about the official procurement process. But I did look at what social value covered and my notes are that it is about opportunity for the local employment training and some other opportunities, but I will have to get back to the Deputy on that.

6. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the Chair of the Jersey Development Company (OQ.79/2026).

Following the Court of Appeal's ruling in the case of the Channel Islands Co-Op v Macleod that the complainant was mistreated and bullied, and further to Oral Question 1/2026, will the Minister (as shareholder representative) confirm whether or not he has confidence in the Chair of the Jersey Development Company?

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean (The Minister for Treasury and Resources):

I am aware of the Court of Appeal judgment and the findings of the Royal Court which preceded it, and I take those findings extremely seriously. The Court of Appeal overturned the damages award. It did not overturn the underlying findings concerning the conduct of the individuals involved. An independent board performance review in late 2025, however, concluded specifically that the Chair leads the Board effectively and found strong working relationships between the Board and the Executive. I also understand that the J.D.C. (Jersey Development Company) Board had recently considered this matter in-depth and unanimously confirmed its full confidence in the Chair. I will shortly meet the independent director to fully understand the Board's conclusions. But this is not simply about corporate performance, there is a legitimate wider question about the standards of conduct and leadership the public is entitled to expect from those who chair publicly-owned bodies. The court's findings cannot simply be disregarded. Equally, I must act in a balanced and fair way on all evidence. On the information presently available to me, I have no evidence arising from the Chair's performance of J.D.C. that would cause me to withdraw my confidence in how J.D.C. is currently led.

3.6.1 Deputy M.B. Andrews :

Does the Minister understand though that there are grave concerns among many members of the public how somebody can act in such a way and for the matter to be heard through appeal and for the Chair to be retained in position and that of course this, potentially, then brings the J.D.C. into disrepute?

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean :

Yes, I do of course understand the concerns and the reason why the Deputy has raised this question in this Assembly. I have to act in a balanced and fair way, as I mentioned. Since I took office I have been considering this matter and I have taken all those factors that I have mentioned in my earlier remarks into consideration. I am, as I have said - and this is the next key issue - meeting with the senior independent director of J.D.C. to understand completely and utterly how and why the Board arrived at the decision that it did in relation to this matter, so that I can give that further consideration.

7. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding working with the Minister for Heal th and Social Services in assessing and managing the Hospital Project's financial risks (OQ.87/2026).

Further to the Minister's Quarterly Hearing with the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel on 14th September 2026, will he explain how he is working with the Minister for Heal th and Social Services to assess and manage the Hospital Project's financial risks?

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean (The Minister for Treasury and Resources):

Responsibility for managing the delivery of the New Heal thcare Facilities Programme rests with the Minister for Heal th and Social Services. My role and that of my team in Treasury is to work closely with the Minister for Heal th and Social Services' team to ensure that financial risks are properly identified,  assessed  and  managed. Treasury  provides  oversight  and  assurance,  challenges assumptions as necessary and reviews the management of programme risks. We do this through established  governance  arrangements,  regular  reporting  and  ongoing  Ministerial  and  officer engagement, including through the New Hospital Facilities Ministerial Working Group, which is due to meet for the first time in this political term later this week. In this group key Ministers and officers meet with the programme team for a review of governance, programme risks and delivery controls. A particular area of focus is affordability and the programme's funding and financing arrangements.

1. Deputy L.V. Feltham :

Given that the Ministerial team has not met, can the Minister for Treasury and Resources confirm that his Treasury team do meet on a regular basis with the hospital programme team?

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean :

Yes, I believe that is correct.

2. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity :

At the hearing with the C.S.S.P. (Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel) the Treasurer said that there was, in his words: "Not much expert advice sought on the levels of hospital contingency within the full business case." Could the Minister explain to the Assembly how much contingency there is and which risks, such as inflation or housing the workforce, for example, sit with the Government, rather than with the contractor?

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean :

Yes. There is, I understand, £14 million of contingency contained within the project. There are some risks which will be also contained. They can sit largely around areas such as the conflicts that we see globally, geopolitical risk, to the supply chains and such like. That would be the most significant I would probably highlight.

3. Deputy H.L. Jeune :

Is the contract a fixed price or is there a maximum exposure for the costs, if the costs rise, for the Government? Has there been a ceiling for maximum exposure?

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean :

There is a fixed-price contract. But, as the Deputy will appreciate and I think I have alluded to, there are certain circumstances that are excluded from it. I gave the example a moment ago, and that would be one of the risks that is outside the fixed-price contract.

4. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement :

Would the Minister give an assurance to the Assembly that given that this group now, this Political Oversight Group, is established and going to meet for the first time, can we expect to see more transparency around the accounting and expenditure on the programme to date?

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean :

I am not sure there was not transparency in the past. But, as I have said, I have only recently taken up this office but, as far as I am concerned, transparency is absolutely key. I can give that undertaking to the Deputy that the financing will be transparent and open and the programme as well. I believe in fact there is a briefing for States Members on this programme coming up shortly in October. It is an opportunity for States Members to ask questions there. But, no, transparency is a key issue.

5. Deputy K.M. Wilson :

In, I think, 2023 the Auditor General did a review on previous hospital projects. One of the things that she highlighted was the scale of abortive costs in relation to previous hospital projects. Does he have any assessment at the moment about the risks relating to any costs in that vein at all, that they will jeopardise the programme in any way?

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean :

I do not believe there are any aborted costs in that regard. There is a Comptroller and Auditor General's review on the way at the moment and I am not sure .. that should be reporting relatively soon, which might also be helpful. It is another form of oversight.

6. Deputy L.V. Feltham :

Given that the Ministerial Group has not yet met, despite there being a number of weeks since taking office, can the Minister for Treasury and Resources give the Assembly confidence that he is receiving regular briefings from his officers on this very important and costly and risky project for the Island? Can he give us assurance that it is a standing agenda item on one of his regular meetings as well, please?

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean :

I can assure the Assembly that this is a major project. It is the largest project I think the Island has ever undertaken. Therefore, it has my full attention; it also has the full attention of the Treasury team. I hope Members can rest assured that we consider those risks around a project of this size and ensuring we get value for money and delivery on time and on budget is absolutely front and centre of our considerations.

8. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John, St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Planning and Regulation regarding a prioritised inspection plan for agricultural staff accommodation over summer 2026 (OQ.84/2026).

Further to  Oral  Question 36/2026,  in relation  to establishing  a prioritised inspection plan for agricultural staff accommodation over the summer of 2026, will the Minister advise whether the plan was implemented and how many dwellings have been inspected since March 2026 and, if not, why not?

Senator Sir M.J. Boleat (The Minister for Planning and Regulation):

I can confirm that a prioritised programme of inspections for agricultural accommodation has been implemented. Since 1st May officers have inspected 243 units of agricultural accommodation, with a further 69 inspections already scheduled to take place in the coming weeks. Officers continue to work  closely  with  the  agricultural  sector  to  promote  and  improve  accommodation  standards, providing advice and guidance where necessary and taking appropriate action where standards fall short of the requirements expected. This proactive programme will continue as part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring that agricultural workers are provided with accommodation that is safe, suitable and of an acceptable standard.

3.8.   Deputy H.L. Jeune :

I thank the Minister for his answer. How many improvement notices or enforcement actions have followed from these 243 inspections?

Senator Sir M.J. Boleat :

My officers continue to support compliance first, while using enforcement powers only where necessary. The approach is guided by the 4 Es; engage, explain, encourage and, as a last resort, enforce. I am pleased to report that to date no enforcement notices have been required. This reflects the positive and proactive response we have seen across the sector with landlords demonstrating a willingness to work with officers and ensure that minimum standards are being met within their rented accommodation.

9. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Heal th and Social Services regarding the Hospital Project Political Oversight Group (OQ.88/2026).

Will the Minister advise whether the Hospital Project Political Oversight Group has met since the new Government took office and, if so, what actions to address project risks were agreed and, if not, why not?

Senator T.J.A. Binet (The Minister for Heal th and Social Services):

Before I answer the question, just for clarity I think I should explain that after the election in 2022 the Hospital Political Oversight Group was replaced by the New Hospital Ministerial Group and that remains the most senior governance body up to date. That New Hospital Ministerial Group, which includes  the  Chief  Minister,  the  Minister  for  Treasury  and  Resources  and  the  Minister  for Infrastructure, is due to meet tomorrow. From then on this will become a regular monthly meeting. In the few weeks that have passed since the formation of the new Council of Ministers, political oversight has continued through political lead meetings, which have taken place almost every week since early 2024. These meetings continued throughout the pre-election period and they have carried on ever since. In addition to that, update presentations are already planned for the Council of Ministers and later for all Sates Members.

1. Deputy L.V. Feltham :

Given the enormity of this programme and the need for Ministers to be on top of their brief with regard to this, why is it taking so long for the Ministerial Group to have met for the first time?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

I think we will find it has only been 9 or 10 weeks since the Council of Ministers was formed. Throughout August a lot of people were on holiday; that does not include me because I think most weeks we had a meeting with the political lead, and that is myself and an Assistant Minister.

[10:45]

We have met almost every week for the last 4 years and we have full cover on this. It has not bothered me at all that we have been 8 or 9 weeks without a meeting because this is probably the first time we have managed to get everybody together, and that meeting is happening tomorrow. Unlike some of the others in here, I do not see any particular crisis. I do not mind saying that I think the governance around this project has been excellent. I have got a copy of the governance arrangements here, if Deputy Feltham would like to see them later. I would read them through but it would probably take me the best part of 20 minutes. But I have the information there, if that is of interest to the Deputy .

2. Deputy K.M. Wilson of St. Clement :

Just for clarity, could the Minister just confirm which Assistant Minister he has been working with on this, please?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

That is Deputy Rose Binet , who has worked with me for just over 4 years on the project.

3. Deputy K.M. Wilson :

I wonder whether the Minister would consider whether it would assist him if there were some independent support for the team that are considering the proposals and whether this might be something that the new Council of Ministers might consider as part of an independent critical friend to the process.

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

I am delighted to tell the Deputy that has been in place for a long time. Once a month Deputy Rose Binet and I also meet with 3 independent non-executive directors that I think they were brought on board at the change of Government 2½ years ago. No, sorry, I am already being corrected. They have been in place for the last 4 years, so we do have 3 independent non-executive directors providing that external oversight.

4. Deputy H.L. Jeune of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity :

Could the Minister explain how it works? Will it be about receiving updates or will the Ministers there be making collective, actionable decisions going forward?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

Could I just clarify whether that is the New Hospital Ministerial Group, comprising of the Chief Minister and the Minister for Treasury and Resources?

Deputy H.L. Jeune : Yes.

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

Everything, if I might say, is put forward at those meetings and of course everybody there is free to make contributions on any and every matter, including the risk register.

5. Deputy H.L. Jeune :

For clarification, other Ministers can put forward points but the Minister for Heal th and Social Services has the final decision; is that the idea? It is not a collective responsibility within that group?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

I will have to check on what the exact situation is. We have never had a situation where that has arisen. People's contributions are accepted for what they are and we move forward. I can find out what the technical arrangements are but, no, when we meet, people contribute and we have never had a situation where there has been any disagreement to date.

6. Deputy L.V. Feltham :

Following his answers, could the Minister let the Assembly know who the independent advisers are and what their tenure is?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

I have always been informed that it is not wise to mention names but I can, it is John Rogers, Nigel Minhane, and forgive me, you have caught me off balance there. Another lady that I have worked with for 4 years and I am afraid the name has gone out of my head. I will happily let the Deputy know afterwards.

Deputy L.V. Feltham :

Sir, and the tenure.

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

Sorry, it is Michelle Ryan. Sorry, it was just a senior moment.

The Bailiff :

Thank you, Minister.

Deputy L.F. Feltham :

Sir, the Minister did not answer the second part of my question, which is what the tenure is.

The Bailiff :

Yes. Do you know the terms of these individuals?

Senator T.J.A. Binet :

I cannot recall when their terms run out but I am very happy to pass on the information afterwards.

10. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the Stabilisation Fund (OQ.80/2026).

Will the Minister advise what steps, if any, he has taken to reinstate the Stabilisation Fund to pre- 2020 levels?

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean (The Minister for Treasury and Resources):

Rebuilding the Stabilisation Fund is a priority. The fund exists to protect Islanders, public services, and the economy during periods of economic difficulty, and it performed exactly that role during the pandemic. The independent Fiscal Policy Panel has been clear that Jersey now needs to rebuild its reserves and save more during periods of stronger revenues, rather than committing all additional income to ongoing expenditure. I agree with that advice. Budget 2027 starts that process by bringing greater restraint to expenditure and reducing the impact of financing the new hospital on the Strategic Reserve. As part of plans for a 3-year budgetary period for 2028 to 2030 I want to bring forward plans to replenish the Stabilisation Fund, but it will require difficult situations, tightly controlling public expenditure, and delivering economic growth to create the surpluses that can be used for that particular purpose. We need to rebuild financial resilience now so that Jersey is properly prepared for the next economic downturn.

3.10.1   Deputy M.B. Andrews :

To grow the Stabilisation Fund to pre-2020 levels, will it be necessary to introduce taxes or to increase existing taxes so we can get there?

Senator A.J.H.M. Maclean :

No, taxes are certainly not on the agenda as far as I am concerned. We do need to consider greater efficiencies, some savings, reprioritisation, but taxes are not on the agenda at all. Let me be absolutely clear about that. I would also say that pre-2020 totals in the Stabilisation Fund had fallen. They were sitting around about £50 million just before the pandemic, which of course was helpful. It was nowhere near the levels when the fund was originally set up, and we should be targeting closer to £150 million for a fund of that nature, which is a significant amount.

The Bailiff :

Thank you, Minister. We now move on to questions to Ministers without notice. The first period of questions are questions for the Minister for Infrastructure and the first questions are from Deputy Coles , Jeune , Wilson , then Gleave .

4. Questions to Ministers without notice - The Minister for Infrastructure

1. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South:

Given the Department for Infrastructure announced the successful trial for the junction of Pleasant Street and Clarence Road, will the Minister outline what success looked like in this trial?