Approved Panel Minutes - Children, Education and Home Affairs - 2026

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Montfort Tadier , Member co-opted to the Panel for its review of Lifelong Learning

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer Matthew Wellman, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Opening Remarks

The Panel noted that the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning had published the following reports on 5th January 2026:

• Apprenticeship Funding: Stakeholder Perspectives - Summary Report

• Post-16 Options: Student Perspectives – Summary Report

The Panel requested that its question plans be altered to reflect the latest publicly available information.

AC  / KdC

2.  Declarations and Conflicts of Interest

The Panel noted that there were no new declarations or conflicts of interest.

3.  Stakeholder Engagement

The Panel noted and discussed the various submissions it had received to date.

4.  Expert Adviser

The Panel discussed the challenges it was facing in recruiting an expert adviser for the Review, largely in relation to the requested timeline. The Panel requested that officers follow up with potential advisers to negotiate what was possible in the timeframe available.

As a fallback option, the Panel was advised that if a contract with an expert adviser could not be secured, it could consider commissioning specific desktop research from a Research and Project Officer within the States Greffe. However, it was noted that this would not provide the same level of detail as originally anticipated.

5.  Public Hearing with the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development

The Panel noted it was due to receive the Minister for  Sustainable Economic Development for a public hearing about the review on Wednesday 7th January 2026.

The  Panel  reviewed  and  approved  its  draft  question  plan,  subject  to  various requested amendments. Officers undertook to update the draft question plans and circulate as soon as possible ahead of the hearing.

AC  / KdC

6.  Public Hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The Panel noted it was due to receive the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning for a public hearing about the review on Thursday 8th January 2026.

The  Panel  reviewed  and  approved  its  draft  question  plan,  subject  to  various requested amendments. Officers undertook to update the draft question plans and circulate as soon as possible ahead of the hearing.

AC  / KdC

7.  Communications Update

The Communications Officer provided a verbal update to the Panel in relation to communications and media around the review.

8.  Any Other Business

No additional items of other business were raised for the attention of the Panel.

9.  Future Meetings

The Panel noted its next scheduled private meeting, after the public hearings, would take place on Tuesday 13th January 2026 in Blampied Room, States Building.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Montfort Tadier , Member co-opted to the Panel for its review of Lifelong Learning

Deputy Kirsten Morel , Minister for Sustainable Economic Development Thomas Holvey, Chief Economic Adviser, Office of the Chief Executive

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer Matthew Wellman, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Public Hearing with the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development

The Panel welcomed Deputy Kirsten Morel , Minister for Sustainable Economic Development and the Chief Economic Adviser for a Public Hearing at 2.00 pm as part of the Panel’s review relating to Lifelong Learning. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

The Panel discussed areas from the hearing and agreed the highlights with the Communications Officer to share on social media.

The Panel requested that the Officer put its remaining questions and follow up points into a letter to send to the Minister for a written response.  

MW AC

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Montfort Tadier , Member co-opted to the Panel for its review of Lifelong Learning

Deputy Rob Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Deputy Carina Alves , Assistant Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning Keith Posner, Interim Chief Officer, Children, Young People, Education and Skills (CYPES)

Stuart Penn, Head of Skills, CYPES

Jo Terry-Marchant, Principal of Highlands College, CYPES

Tania Jackson , Policy Officer, CYPES

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer Matthew Wellman, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Public Hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The  Panel  welcomed Deputy  Rob   Ward ,  Minister  for  Education  and  Lifelong Learning, Deputy Carina Alves , Assistant Minister, and Government Officers for a Public Hearing at 1:00 pm as part of the Panel’s review relating to Lifelong Learning. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

The Panel discussed areas from the hearing and agreed the highlights with the Communications Officer to share on social media.

The Panel requested that the Officer put its remaining questions and follow up points into a letter to send to the Minister for a written response.

MW AC

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

Apologies

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

In attendance

Peter Gough, Policy Officer, Cabinet Office

Jason Masterman, Manager – Fire Safety, Justice and Home Affairs

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Private  Briefing:  Draft  Fire  Safety  (Tall  Residential  Buildings)  (Jersey)

Regulations 202-

The Panel welcomed officers to a private briefing on the proposed Draft Fire Safety (Tall  Residential  Buildings)  (Jersey)  Regulations  202–  [P.120/2025]  (the ‘Regulations’).

A private file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Qualified Exemption 35 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Elizabeth  Searle,  Interim  Head  of  Inclusion,  Children,  Young  People, Education and Skills

Gareth Bailey, Lead Education Welfare Officer

Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Panel visit to La Passerelle School

The Panel visited La Passerelle primary and secondary school. The Panel were given a presentation and a tour of the secondary school buildings and then the Panel visited the La Passerelle school site at Five Oaks. The Panel had the opportunity to ask questions during the visit.

The Panel thanked the Interim Head of Inclusion and the Lead Education Welfare Officer for their time and the visit was concluded.

AC

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer Matthew Wellman, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Opening Remarks

With reference to the Order Paper for the States Assembly sitting on 20th January 2026, it was noted that the Chair of the Panel had been incorrectly listed as the main respondent for the  proposition  P.90/2025,  the  Draft  Policing  of  Parks  (Jersey) Amendment Regulations 202- and asked officers to arrange for this to be corrected.

 KdC

2.  Declarations and conflicts of interest

The Panel noted that there were no new declarations or conflicts of interest.

3.  Records of Meetings

The Panel agreed to defer the approval of the minutes listed on the agenda at this meeting.

4.  Draft Marriage and Civil Partnership (Dissolution and Separation) (Jersey)

Law 202- [P.85/2025]

The Panel recalled that, at the States Assembly sitting on 25th November 2025, the Draft Marriage and Civil Partnership (Dissolution and Separation) (Jersey) Law 202- (the Proposition’) had been referred for further scrutiny review under Standing Order

72. The proposition would return to the States Assembly for debate on 3rd February 2026.

The Panel noted receipt of correspondence dated 16th December 2025 from the Jersey Family Law Association (JFLA), which had highlighted some concerns about the Proposition. The Panel had subsequently sent queries to the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs and discussed the response which was received on 14th January 2026.

The Panel agreed that it would request a meeting with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs to discuss the Proposition in further detail and asked the officer to make suitable arrangements.

The Panel confirmed it would produce a further comments paper on the Proposition and agreed to defer any decisions on possible Amendments until after meeting with the Minister.

KdC

5.  Review Legislation to address Violence Against Women and Girls

The Panel noted that the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs had lodged the following legislation on 13th January 2026:

1. Draft Sexual Offences (Jersey) Amendment Law 202- [P.5/2026]
2. Draft Harassment and Stalking (Jersey) Law 202- [P.6/2026]
3. Draft Domestic Abuse (Jersey) Amendment Law 202- [P.7/2026]
4. Draft Crime (Strangulation) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.8/2026]
5. Draft Crime (Public Order) (Jersey) Amendment Law No.2 Law 202- [P.9/2026]

(together the ‘VAWG legislation’).

The Panel reviewed and approved the draft Terms of Reference and Scoping Document for the Panel’s review of the VAWG legislation. The Panel asked the Officer to send the documents to the Scrutiny Liaison Committee for approval.

It was noted that the earliest date for the debate of the VAWG legislation was 24th February 2026.  

KdC

6.  Scrutiny Review: Lifelong Learning

The Panel received a verbal update from the Research and Project Officer about the status of the review. The Panel discussed its forthcoming engagement with the Jersey Youth Assembly and requested that a copy of the PowerPoint presentation prepared by the States Greffe’s Education Officers be circulated to them at the earliest convenience ahead of the meeting.

AC

7.  Scrutiny Review: ‘What protection do children in Jersey have from online

harms?’

The Panel discussed the Ministerial Response to S.R.4/2025 was published on 19th December 2025 by the Minister for Children and Families. It was noted that 13 recommendations from the review had been accepted, 22 recommendations were partially accepted and 3 recommendations were rejected.

The Panel agreed that it would include some questions to reflect on the Ministerial responses to the review in each of the final quarterly hearings with Ministers in its remit (scheduled for January / February 2026). The Panel also agreed that it would reflect on S.R.4/2025 in its final legacy report.

KdC

8.  Update about Panel communications and media

The Panel received a verbal update from the Panel’s Communications Officer regarding recent media coverage and media monitoring.

9.  States Business

The Panel considered items of business at forthcoming States Assembly meetings. The Panel also discussed recent Ministerial Decisions and Reports relevant to its remit.

10. Work Programme 2025 - 2026

The Panel discussed its planned work programme up to April 2026.  

11. Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Children and Families

The Panel noted it was due to receive the Minister for Children and Families for its final quarterly public hearing on Wednesday 28th January 2026.

The Panel reviewed and approved its draft question plan, subject to various minor amendments. Officers undertook to update the draft question plan and circulate as soon as possible ahead of the hearing.

KdC

12. Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs

The Panel noted it was due to receive the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs for its final quarterly public hearing on Thursday 29th January 2026.

The  Panel  reviewed  and  approved  its  draft  question  plan,  subject  to  various requested amendments. Officers undertook to update the draft question plans and circulate as soon as possible ahead of the hearing.

KdC

13. Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The Panel noted it was due to receive the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning for its final quarterly public hearing on Monday 2nd February 2026.

The Panel discussed topics for inclusion in the draft question plan. Officers undertook to circulate the draft question plan as soon as possible ahead of the hearing.

KdC

14. La Passerelle School visit

The Panel discussed its recent visit to La Passerelle school on 16th January 2026.

15. Future Meetings

The Panel noted its next scheduled private meeting would take place on Monday 2nd February 2026 in the Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Montfort Tadier , Member co-opted to the Panel for its review of Lifelong Learning

Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer Heidi Whitehead, Education and Outreach Officer Phillipa Oliver, Education and Outreach Officer Jersey Youth Assembly Members

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel Meeting with the

Jersey Youth Assembly

The Panel welcomed Officers and members of the Jersey Youth Assembly (JYA) to a meeting held as part of the Panel’s review into lifelong learning. The session was facilitated by Officers, who led a structured discussion by posing a series of questions to  JYA  members.  The  Panel  observed  and  participated  in  the  discussion  as appropriate.

During the meeting, Officers engaged with JYA members to gather their views on various aspects of lifelong learning in Jersey. Particular attention was given to apprenticeships, as well as the availability, accessibility and clarity of information relating  to  vocational  pathways.  JYA  members  shared  their  experiences  and perspectives on current opportunities and the challenges young people faced when navigating post-16 and post-18 options.

A private file note of the meeting was produced for the Panel’s records. In addition, the JYA’s written notes from the discussion were submitted publicly as part of the Review’s evidence base.

AC/PO

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

Apologies

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

In attendance

Deputy Mary Le Hegarat , Minister for Justice and Home Affairs Francis Walker , Head of Policy, Cabinet Office

Maria Washington, Consultant, Government of Jersey

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Private Briefing: Draft Marriage and Civil Partnership (Dissolution and

Separation) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.85/2025]

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs and Government Officers to a private briefing on the Draft Marriage and Civil Partnership (Dissolution and Separation) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.85/2025] (the ‘draft Law’) and the Minister’s subsequent Amendment to the draft Law.

The Panel discussed the points raised in correspondence from the Jersey Family Law Association (JFLA), which had highlighted some concerns about the draft Law, in addition to correspondence with the Minister about the highlighted matters.

It was confirmed to the Panel that a number of the points raised could be addressed at a later stage, through Regulations ahead of the draft Law’s enactment.

The Panel agreed that it would arrange a meeting with a Family Court Judge to discuss some of the queried points relating to the draft Law and asked its officer to make the necessary arrangements.

The Minister confirmed support for the 2nd reading of the draft Law to be deferred from 3rd February 2026 to the following sitting on 24th February 2026, in order to allow the Panel time to complete its work. The Panel agreed to seek approval from the Assembly to request the deferral.

The Panel thanked the Minister and Officers for their time and the meeting concluded.

KdC

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

Apologies

Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Peter Gough, Policy Officer, Cabinet Office

Bryn Coleman, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service

Ryan Hall , Station Commander, States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service Dominique Caunce, Andium Homes

Deano Davey, Andium Homes

Michael Ruane, Andium Homes

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Panel Visit to Le Tour Egret, Le Marais, St Clement

The Panel visited Le Tour Egret with representatives from the Government of Jersey, the States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service (SoJFRS) and Andium Homes for a building fire safety walk round. The purpose of the visit was to observe the practical application of the proposed Draft Fire Safety (Tall Residential Buildings) (Jersey) Regulations 202– [P.120/2025] (the ‘Regulations’) during a visit to a tall residential building which had already incorporated many of the proposed safety changes.

The Panel thanked the individuals who had facilitated the visit and supported the Panel’s understanding of the draft Regulations.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families

Malcolm Ferey , Assistant Minister for Children and Families

Donna Marriot, Director of Children’s Services, Department for Children, Young People, Education and Skills (CYPES)

Darren  Bowring,  Associate  Director,  Children’s  Mental  Health  and Wellbeing, CYPES

Andrew Heaven, Assistant Director Policy, CYPES

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Matthew Wellman, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Public Hearing with the Minister for Children and Families

The Panel welcomed Deputy Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families, Deputy  Malcolm   Ferey ,  Assistant  Minister  for  Children  and  Families,  and Government Officers for a public hearing at 2:00 pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

The Panel discussed areas from the hearing and agreed the highlights with the Communications Officer to share on social media.

MW

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Mary Le Hegarat , Minister for Justice and Home Affairs

Kate Briden, Chief Officer, Justice and Home Affairs

Robin Smith, Chief Officer, States of Jersey Police

Paul Brown, Chief Fire Officer, States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service Rhiannon Small, Head of Service, Customs and Immigration Service Nathan Fox, Head of Policy, Criminal Justice, Cabinet Office

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Matthew Wellman, Communications Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Quarterly Public Hearing: Minister for Justice and Home Affairs

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs and Government Officers for a quarterly public hearing at 1:30 pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-i and a transcript was produced.

Following the public hearing, the Panel discussed and agreed key topics to include in a social media update with the Communications Officer.

MW

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

Item 13 only

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair (apologies sent for earlier part of the

meeting)

In attendance

Item 13 only

Deputy Rob Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Deputy Carina Alves , Assistant Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning Keith Posner, Interim Chief Officer, Department for Children, Young People, Education and Skills (CYPES)

Jonathan Williams, CYPES

Alexa Munn, Head of Governance and Digital, CYPES

Tania Jackson , Policy Officer, CYPES

Matthew Wellman, Communications Officer

All Items

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Declarations and conflicts of interest

The Panel noted that there were no new declarations or conflicts of interest.

2.  Records of Meetings

The Panel noted and approved the records of the meetings held on 17th, 27th and 28th November and 1st and 2nd December 2025.

KdC / AC

3.  Draft Marriage and Civil Partnership (Dissolution and Separation) (Jersey)

Law 202- [P.85/2025]

The Panel noted that it would ask the States Assembly to defer the second reading of the draft Law from 3rd February 2026 to 24th February 2026.

It was also noted that the Panel would meet a Family Division Judge on 10th February 2026 to discuss various points which had bene queried in relation to the draft Law. The Panel discussed potential amendments to the draft Law but agreed that it would make any final decision following its meeting on 10th February.

4.  Review Legislation to address Violence Against Women and Girls

The Panel received a verbal update from the Committee and Panel Officer about the status of the review.  

5.  Scrutiny Review: Lifelong Learning

The Panel received a verbal update from the Research and Project Officer about the status of the review.  

6.  Update about Panel communications and media The Panel media monitoring was referenced.  

7.  States Business

The Panel reviewed recent Ministerial Decisions and Reports and considered items of business for forthcoming States meetings which fell under the Panel’s remit.

8.  Work Programme for 2026

The Panel discussed its planned work programme up to April 2026.  

9.  Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The Panel noted it was due to receive the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning for its final quarterly public hearing at 12:30pm.

The Panel reviewed and approved its draft question plan, subject to various minor amendments.  

KdC / AC

10. Any Other Business

No items of other business were raised for the attention of the Panel.  

11. Future Meetings

The Panel noted its final scheduled private meeting would take place on Monday 23rd February 2026 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.

12. Public Hearing with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The  Panel  welcomed Deputy  Rob   Ward ,  Minister  for  Education  and  Lifelong Learning,   Deputy  Carina   Alves ,  Assistant  Minister  for  Education  and  Lifelong Learning, and Government Officers for a public hearing at 12:30 pm. The hearing was recorded, and webcast live via Public-I and a transcript was produced.

Following the hearing, the Panel discussed highlights with the Communications Officer to share on social media.

MW

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Adviser Update

The Panel received a verbal update on the status of procuring the Adviser’s report. The Officer informed the Panel that advice had been received from the Law Officers’ Department and that work was ongoing to resolve an issue relating to the contract.

The Panel was advised that the draft Report had been prepared in such a way that it was not dependent upon the Adviser’s report. The Panel would therefore be able to determine, at its next meeting, whether it wished to include any material from the Adviser once the contractual matters had been concluded.

AC

2.  Report

The Panel considered the draft Report and proposed a minor amendment to include additional detail regarding the provision of vocational learning opportunities for 14– 16-year-olds, together with an accompanying finding and recommendation.

Subject to the inclusion of these minor changes, the Panel approved the Report and agreed for it to be sent to the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development and the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning for fact checking.

AC

3.  Timings

The Panel received a verbal update on the factchecking process. The Panel was advised that the Minister for Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills would be unable to meet the requested Wednesday 11th February 2026 deadline. The Panel agreed to extend the deadline for fact checking for the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning to Thursday 12th February 2026.

AC

4.  Future Meetings

The Panel noted that its next scheduled meeting will take place on Wednesday 11th February 2026 at 3:00pm.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Item 1 only

Samantha McFazdean, Family Division Judge, Royal Court of Jersey – Family Division

Item 2 only

Eleanor Laws KC, Author of ‘The Laws Review: Independent Review of domestic abuse, rape and other sexual assault cases’

Charley Hacquoil, Principal Policy Officer, Cabinet Office

Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer

All items

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Private meeting: Draft Marriage and Civil Partnership (Dissolution and

Separation) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.85/2025]

The Panel welcomed Samantha McFazdean, Family Division Judge, Royal Court of Jersey – Family Division, to a private meeting to discuss various points which had been raised in relation to the Panel’s examination of the Draft Marriage and Civil Partnership  (Dissolution  and  Separation)  (Jersey)  Law  202-  and  to  get  the operational perspective from a Family Division Judge.

A private file note was made of the meeting, classified as exempt in accordance with Absolute Exemption 26 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011.

2.  Private Briefing: Publication of the VAWG Independent Criminal Justice

review

The Panel welcomed Eleanor Laws KC, Author of ‘The Laws Review: Independent Review of domestic abuse, rape and other sexual assault cases’ (‘the Laws Review’) and the Principal Policy Officer to a private briefing about the Laws Review prior to its publication on 11th February 2026. The Panel was provided with the opportunity to ask questions.

A private file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Qualified Exemption 36 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011.  

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Montfort Tadier , Member co-opted to the Panel for its review of Lifelong Learning

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Scrutiny Review: Lifelong Learning

The Panel discussed and approved its report for its Scrutiny Review of Lifelong Learning, subject to receipt of the final factchecking comments from one stakeholder (which would be circulated on Teams for the Panel’s attention) and a number of minor amendments, which had largely been made to reflect the receipt of the Expert Adviser’s report.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Items 1-14

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Item 14

Deputy Mary Le Hegarat , Minister for Justice and Home Affairs

Nathan  Fox,  Head  of  Justice  Policy,  Strategic  Policy,  Planning  and Performance

Patrick Hammon, Legal Advisor, Law Officers’ Department

Advocate Matthew Maletroit, Law Officers’ Department

Item 15

Connétable Andy Jehan , Minister for Infrastructure

Tristen Dodd, Associate Director – Highways, Transport and Infrastructure, Infrastructure and Environment

Louisa  Philipps,  Head  of  Strategic  Road  Safety,  Infrastructure  and Environment

Lawrence Courtness, Detective Inspector, States of Jersey Police

Deputy Lucy Stephenson , Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel Joanna Falla , Committee and Panel Officer

All Items

Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Opening Remarks

No opening remarks were shared for the attention of the Panel.  

2.  Declarations and conflicts of interest

The Panel noted that there were no new declarations or conflicts of interest.

3.  Records of Meetings

The Panel noted and, subject to minor amendments, approved the records of the meetings held on 7th, 8th, 16th, 27th, 28th and 29th January 2026.

KdC

4.  Violence Against Women and Girls Legislation Review

The Panel noted that the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs has deferred the debate of the following legislation to the Assembly Sitting on 10th March 2026

1. Draft Sexual Offences (Jersey) Amendment Law 202-[P.5/2026]
2. Draft Harassment and Stalking (Jersey) Law 202-[P.6/2026]
3. Draft Domestic Abuse (Jersey) Amendment Law 202-[P.7/2026]
4. Draft Crime (Strangulation) (Jersey) Law 202-[P.8/2026]

v.  Draft  Crime  (Public  Order)  (Jersey)  Amendment  Law  No.2  Law  202-

[P.9/2026].

The  Panel  discussed the further financial  analysis  information required for the Panel’s comments papers. The Panel noted concerns regarding the funding and resource implications of the proposed legislation. The Officer noted that the letters requesting funding and resourcing information from stakeholders were delayed and the Panel noted they expected to receive response in the following week. The Panel agreed to withhold from publishing comments until they had received the responses.

KdC

5.  The Care Experienced Fund [P.30/2026]

The Panel noted that the Minister for Children and Families lodged P.30/2026 on 6th February 2026. The Panel noted that a briefing from Government Officers about the proposition was scheduled for Tuesday 3rd March 2026.

The Panel discussed how the Panel intended to review the proposition ahead of the scheduled debate on 24th March 2026. The Panel agreed to produce a comments paper.  

KdC

6.  Draft  Criminal  Justice  (Procedures)  (Jersey)  Amendment  Law  202-

[P.38/2026]

The Panel noted that the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs lodged P.38/2026 on 10th February 2026. The Panel discussed how the Panel wished to review the proposition ahead of the scheduled debate on 24th March 2026. The Panel agreed to write letters to key stakeholders to request their feedback and agreed to produce comments.

KdC

7.  Scrutiny Briefing: Children, Young People, Education and Skills (‘CYPES’)

Structure

The Panel noted that the Panel was due to receive a private briefing regarding the CYPES structure on Tuesday 3rd March 2026.

8.  Scrutiny Review: Lifelong Learning

The  Panel  noted  that the  report  was  published  on  13th  February  2026  and  a Ministerial response was expected by 27th March 2026.

The Panel approved the Chair’s statement on its behalf, which was to be made in the Assembly on 24th February 2026.  

9.  Work Programme

The Panel discussed its current work programme and discussed the forthcoming programme of work for February 2026 to April 2026.

10. States Business

The Panel reviewed recent Ministerial Decisions and Reports and considered items of business for forthcoming States meetings which fall in the Panel’s remit. The Panel raised  a  query  regarding  MD-CEF-2026-24  and  asked  for  Officers  to  request clarification on the MD.

AC

11. Any Other Business

The Panel discussed arrangements for a meeting regarding the Sleep Project, which was currently scheduled for 18th March 2026. The Panel members noted apologies and requested that officers reschedule the meeting to a mutually convenient time.

KdC

The Panel considered the possibility of a visit to Haute Vallee School. Following discussion of the proposed timings, and in light of the Panel’s workload and time constraints, the Panel agreed that the visit should be cancelled.

AC

12. Future Meetings

The Panel noted its next scheduled private meeting would take place on Monday 9th March 2026 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.

13. Private Briefing: Draft Criminal Justice (Procedures) (Jersey) Amendment

Law 202- [P.38/2026]

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs and officers to a private  briefing  regarding  the  Draft  Criminal  Justice  (Procedures)  (Jersey) Amendment Law 202- [P.38/2026].

A private file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Qualified  Exemption  36  of  the  Freedom  of  Information (Jersey)  Law 2011 (as amended). The Panel agreed to discuss further and publish its comments on the proposition ahead of the debate by the States Assembly on 24th March 2026.  

AC/ KdC

14. Private Briefing: Draft Road Traffic Law (Drug Driving)

The Panel welcomed the Minister for Infrastructure and officers to a private briefing with the Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel regarding the Draft Road Traffic Law (Drug Driving).

A private file note was made of the briefing, classified as exempt in accordance with Qualified  Exemption  36  of  the  Freedom  of  Information (Jersey)  Law 2011 (as amended).

AC

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair (attending online) Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Deputy Inna Gardiner

Deputy Louise Doublet (attending online) Deputy Karen Wison (attending online)

Dr. Rob Pierce, GP (attending online)

Lydia Falle, Psychotherapist (attending online) Carl Howarth, Principal, Jersey College for Girls

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Briefing: Tackling sleep deprivation in teens through delayed school start

times

The Panel welcomed Deputies Gardiner , Doublet and Wilson , together with Dr. Rob Pierce, Lydia Falle, and Carl Howarth to receive information regarding tackling sleep deprivation in teens and a proposal to adjust the start times of secondary schools.

The Panel, together with the other Deputies, had been approached by the group who were keen to promote public awareness and discussion about the health benefits of teenagers and young people getting enough sleep.

The Panel received background information on the importance of circadian rhythms in supporting healthy sleep. It was noted that insufficient sleep can have wider consequences for an individual’s health, wellbeing and academic performance. Members were also informed that children and young people naturally wake later than  adults,  meaning  that  current  school  start  times  may  contribute  to  many teenagers not getting adequate sleep.

The 2024 Children and Young People’s Survey findings were referenced, and it was explained that this showed that more than half of respondents were sleep deprived. Reference was also made to UK studies that identified correlations between later start times, reduced absences, and improved exam performance.

It was proposed that Jersey could run a university-designed pilot to delay secondary school start times, for example, by approximately one hour. Undertaking such a pilot would provide a research opportunity to see if any benefits were identified to the young people. It was explained that any change would likely need to be implemented across  all  secondary  schools  due to  wider  logistical  implications,  for  example, adjustments to school bus timetables, after-school activities, and arrangements for parents with children in primary schools. However, it was also suggested that there could be potential benefits, such as reducing or staggering peak-time traffic.

The Panel and Deputies were given the opportunity to ask questions, and additional factors  that  could  impact sleep, such  as  screen  time  and  the  consumption  of caffeinated drinks, were discussed.

The Panel and Deputies thanked attendees for the presentation and information about this matter and the meeting concluded.

Present

All items

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair (attending online via Teams)

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair (Chairing at the request of Deputy Curtis )

Item 1

Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Item 1

Deputy Rob Ward , Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

Keith Posner, Acting Chief Officer of Children, Education, Young People and Skills (CYPES)

Item 2

Connétable Richard Vibert , Minister for Children and Families

Andrew Heaven, Assistant Director Policy, Cabinet Office

Abbie Moore , Private Secretary to the Minister for Children and Families

All items

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Private briefing from the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning

The Panel met with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning and officers for a private briefing about proposed changes to the structure of Education within CYPES. This meeting was held in private and, in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exempt Information Article 36, a private record was taken.

2.  Briefing about ‘The Care Experienced Fund’ [P.30/2026]

The Panel met with the Minister for Children and Families and Government officers for a briefing about the lodged proposition, ‘The Care Experienced Fund’ [P.30/2026], which was scheduled for debate in the States Assembly at the sitting on 24th March 2026.

The Panel was provided with a reminder about the background to the proposed creation of a fund for care experienced islanders over the age of 25 (hereafter ‘the Fund’) following recommendations from the Independent Care Inquiry.

During the briefing, the Panel was advised that the Fund had been designed to be a ringfenced sum that would be invested as part of the States’ Common Investment Fund. The administration of the fund would be facilitated by an independent, non- Government administrator so that potential beneficiaries would not have to approach a Government entity for support. There would be three main areas of focus for the Fund to support potential beneficiaries, namely, to provide support for islanders with care experience with:

• Mental health and wellbeing, for example, accessing psychological support;

• Progressing lifelong learning opportunities, or help with the desire to return to education to advance their attainment; and

• Financial stability and emergency funding, for example, in situations where other people may turn to the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ or have support from familial networks.

The Panel had corresponded with the Minister in advance of the meeting with some queries about the definition of “care experienced”. The report accompanying the proposition referenced that applicants were required to meet the definition of having previously been “a child in the care of the Minister” under the Children (Jersey) Law 2002, however, the Panel had noted that this was not a specific definition used in the draft terms of reference, where “care experience” is used as a more general term. Furthermore, the Panel asked for clarification of whether the definition used in the Children (Jersey) Law 2002 would be any of the circumstances referenced in Article 1A of that law which refers to “a child who is looked after by the Minister”.

It was confirmed that the definition was intentionally broad to allow a degree of flexibility, but that the purpose was for the Fund to benefit adults who were previously children in the care of the Minister, by virtue of a care order. It was explained that Article 1A of the Law (children looked after by the Minister) includes a wider group of children, including those in the Minister’s care for a very short period of time or because  they  were  held  in  custody  on  remand  and,  therefore  in  different circumstances to those who were subject to a care order.

During the briefing, the Minister emphasised the need for flexibility of the definition, recognising that some eligible individuals experienced circumstances governed by legislation in place before the Children (Jersey) Law 2002. It was confirmed that efforts would be made to ensure that the relevant records were checked in order to ascertain eligibility and ensure that individuals with previous care experience in Jersey would have access to the support funding where possible. It was further confirmed that detail about beneficiary criteria would be included in Service Level Agreements  to  be  entered  into  by  the  independent  administrators,  who  would determine the eligibility of applicants.

The Panel asked if care experienced islanders who had subsequently left the Island would be eligible for support from the Fund. The Minister advised that the Fund was intended to support those who lived in Jersey only.

The  Panel  also  noted  that  the  report  accompanying  the  proposition  included estimates for annual investment income of approx. 2% and annual benefits uprate of 2.5% and requested that further information be provided about the percentage figures and why they were considered appropriate estimates. The Panel was advised that the return percentages had been discussed with officers from the Government’s Treasury team as part of the Fund’s development and had deliberately been set at a conservative estimate, below the Fiscal Policy Panel’s projections.

The Panel was advised about the proposed administrator of the Fund and queried details  about  their  percentage  of  fees.  There  was  reference  in  the  report accompanying the proposition to a fee of 10% and the Panel asked for clarification as to whether this would be for 10% of the distributions processed. The Minister and officers said that this was likely the case but would revert to the Panel to confirm further details following the meeting.

The Panel asked how potentially eligible islanders would be alerted to the existence of  the  Fund  and  potential  support.  It  was  confirmed  that  the  independent administrator would be required to undertake some promotion of the Fund as part of their fee, but also, that organisations such as Jersey Cares would likely be helpful in sharing information with potentially eligible individuals with whom they came into contact.

Regarding the establishment of the Fund, it was confirmed that the sale of Aviemore was expected to complete in summer 2026. The Panel was advised that there would be  two  tranches  of  income  into  the  Fund,  pending  stages  of  the  sale  and development.

The Panel queried the proposed 10-year lifespan of the Fund. The Minister explained that this timeframe could be reviewed in due course and would depend, in part, on the Fund’s performance. It was noted that the intention was for the Fund to support those affected by poorer care experiences in the past, while future generations of care leavers should benefit from improved care and enhanced support systems.

The Panel thanked the Minister and officers for the briefing, and it was agreed that one further query would be followed up by email.

The Panel agreed that it would prepare supportive comments on the proposition ahead of the debate in the States Assembly.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

Apologies

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

In attendance

Item 1 only

Mr. Robert MacRae , The Bailiff of Jersey

All items

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Meeting with The Bailiff of Jersey

The Panel met with the Bailiff of Jersey to discuss queries it had in relation to the Draft Criminal Justice (Procedures) (Jersey) Amendment Law 202- [P.38/2026].

A private file note was made of the meeting, classified as exempt in accordance with Qualified Exemption 31 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011.

2.  Opening Remarks

The Chair drew the Panel’s attention to a reported case of the Jersey Employment and Discrimination Tribunal, which had found that the Government had discriminated against disabled siblings by failing to make reasonable adjustments to childminding ratios. The Panel discussed the public interest points and broader implications arising from the case.

The Panel also discussed cases reported on the Jersey Legal Information Board’s website where the judgment had referenced that physical restraint could be used as a last resort to prevent a child leaving a home where they were in the Government’s care. The Panel discussed the public interest points and broader implications arising from the judgements.

3.  Declarations and conflicts of interest

The Panel noted that there were no new declarations or conflicts of interest.

4.  Records of Meetings

The Panel noted and approved the records of the meetings held on 19th January, 6th and 23rd February 2026.

KdC

5.  The Care Experienced Fund [P.30/2026]

The Panel had received a briefing about The Care Experienced Fund [P.30/2026] proposition on 3rd March 2026.

The Panel agreed that it would draft comments in relation to the proposition and asked the Officer to circulate the first draft on Teams for its consideration and, if thought fit, approval, in due course.

KdC

The Panel noted that it awaited a response to queries about fees payable to the Fund’s Administrator following the briefing and agreed that it would incorporate any relevant information from the response into its comments.  

6.  Draft  Criminal  Justice  (Procedures)  (Jersey)  Amendment  Law  202-

[P.38/2026]

The  Panel  noted that  the  Minister for  Justice and  Home  Affairs  had  provided notification of the intention to lodge an Amendment to P.38/2026, which would address  a  query  raised  by  the  Panel  about  defence  case  statements.  The Amendment to the Amendment Law would remove the provision to allow a court to waive the requirement for a defence case statement to be submitted by defendants with a legal representative. It was explained that practitioners had highlighted that new issues could arise, for example, adding new lines of argument that defendants should be allowed a waiver, which may not benefit any party of the case.

The Panel noted its recent meeting with the Bailiff and noted that this had provided various assurances to other queries.

The Panel agreed that it would draft comments in relation to the proposition and asked the Officer to circulate the first draft on Teams for its consideration and, if thought fit, approval, in due course.

KdC

7.  Work Programme

The Panel discussed its current work programme and discussed the forthcoming programme of work until April 2026.

8.  States Business

The Panel considered items of business at forthcoming States Assembly meetings. The Panel also discussed recent Ministerial Decisions and Reports relevant to its remit.

9.  Any Other Business

The Panel noted that its draft comments on the five propositions relating to the Panel’s review of the Violence Against Women and Girls legislation had been circulated for approval on Teams.

However, as the Panel was aware that the Minister intended to reissue the reports accompanying the Proposition, and since its draft comments referenced a table included in the updated report, the Panel agreed to delay publishing its comments until the revised report had been issued.

10. Future Meetings

The Panel noted its next scheduled meeting would take place on Monday 23rd March 2026 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  The Care Experienced Fund [P.30/2026]

The Panel considered and approved its comments on the proposition for The Care Experienced Fund.

The Panel approved that its comments be submitted for presentation to the States Assembly and asked the Officer to make the relevant arrangements.

KdC

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

In attendance

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Draft  Criminal  Justice  (Procedures)  (Jersey)  Amendment  Law  202-

[P.38/2026]

The Panel considered and approved its comments on the proposition for the Draft Criminal Justice (Procedures) (Jersey) Amendment Law 202-.

The Panel approved that its comments be submitted for presentation to the States Assembly and asked the Officer to make the relevant arrangements.

KdC

Present

Deputy Catherine Curtis , Chair Deputy Helen Miles , Member

Apologies

Connétable Mark Labey , Vice-Chair

In attendance

Katherine de Carteret, Committee and Panel Officer Amelia Cushion , Research and Project Officer

Agenda matter

Action

1.  Opening Remarks

The  Chair  noted  that  the  States  Assembly  Order  paper  had  listed  the  wrong respondent for the proposition relating to The Care Experienced Fund (P.30/2026) and asked officers to advise the States Greffe ahead of the Assembly sitting.

The Panel noted the publication of the report R.42/2026, namely: The Regulation of Investigatory  Powers  (Jersey)  Law  2005  and  Police  Procedures  and  Criminal Evidence (Jersey) Law 2003: Report of the Investigatory Powers Commissioner for the period 1 January to 31 December 2024, and asked officers to circulate a copy to the Panel.

The Panel noted a recent article in the Jersey Evening Post about the Best Start Partnership and agreed that it would write to the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning to query the status of the organisation.

Furthermore, as it had been an area of Panel interest previously, the Chair advised the Panel that she had submitted a written question relating to the diagnosis and screening of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder (FASD).

KdC

AC AC

2.  Declarations and conflicts of interest

The Panel noted that there were no new declarations or conflicts of interest.  

3.  Records of Meetings

The Panel noted and approved the records of the meetings held on 18th, 20th, 21st, 24th November, 17th December 2025, and 3rd March 2026.

KdC / AC

4.  Legacy Report

The officer confirmed that the first draft of the Panel’s Legacy Report would be circulated for initial comments following the meeting.

It was highlighted that the Ministerial Response to the Panel’s review of Lifelong Learning, published as S.R.3/2026 was due to be published on Friday 27th March 2026. The Panel agreed to await this response before providing any approval for its Legacy Report, to ensure that the statistics and sections relating to Lifelong Learning could be updated appropriately.

The Panel agreed that, once its initial comments and suggested changes had been incorporated, along with the updates relating to the Lifelong Learning report, it would approve its Legacy Report via Teams.

5.  Update about Panel communications and media The Panel media monitoring was referenced.  

6.  States Business

The Panel reviewed recent Ministerial Decisions and Reports and considered items of business for forthcoming States meetings which fall in the Panel’s remit. The Panel queried  MD-ELL-2026-214  (Education  (Grants  and  Allowances)  (Jersey) Amendment Order 2026) and asked officers to put a summary document relating to it.

The Panel asked officers to request further details and the accompanying report for MD-ELL-2026-17 (relating to Delegation of functions - Delegation of Day Care of Children (Jersey) Law 2002).  

AC AC

7.  Any Other Business

No items of other business were raised for the attention of the Panel.  

8.  Future Meetings

The Panel noted its final scheduled private meeting would take place on Monday 13th April 2026 in Le Capelain Room, States Building.