Scrutiny Panel established to explore relationship between parishes and the Government
Scrutiny
14 March 2025
A dedicated Review Panel (the Panel) has been established to examine how the parishes and the Government of Jersey are working together to provide effective community services and to implement common key strategies and policies.The parishes are responsible for providing key services, including refuse and recycling collections, the maintenance of roads, parks and gardens and play spaces at local level. They are also responsible for the organisation and funding of the honorary policing service. The parishes also provide a number of administrative functions, including firearms certificates and duties around alcohol licensing.
The Panel will examine in more detail how the Government interacts with the parishes in the effective and efficient delivery of community services. The Panel has identified a number of key issues it will explore further, including:
- the contemporary needs of the honorary police system and how its key functions can be best maintained/improved;
- the administrative functions delivered by the parish and whether different mechanisms might be needed to meet modern requirements;
- the parish-owned or provided facilities which currently offer services to identify how the Government might support delivery;
- how the Government engages with the parishes in order to help deliver its key strategies including the commitment to put children first, to improve community safety, to address the root cause of preventable illnesses and to remove unnecessary bureaucracy.
The Panel also wants to better understand how the current system of rates is operating and being applied to assess whether there is a role for Government in ensuring that each parish applies a sustainable and transparent model and a common methodology.
Deputy Helen Miles, who will Chair the Parishes and the Government of Jersey Review Panel, said: ‘The parish plays a crucial role as the hub of social organisation and administration in Jersey, a position that remains deeply rooted in the island's heritage and continues to shape its society today. This review aims to offer a thoughtful and appreciative assessment of the parish system, acknowledging its strengths and the aspects that function effectively. Given that the last comprehensive review of the parish system and its relationship with the Government was conducted in 2000, this timely review seeks to enhance the parish system, ensuring its continued relevance and sustainability for future generations.’
The Panel will liaise with the Comité des Connétable to gather evidence and insight on the services and functions provided by the parishes. The Panel is also due to hold public hearings with Ministers and stakeholders to understand their views on the parish system. A report detailing its findings and recommendations is due to be presented to the States Assembly in October.
More information about the Review Panel, including its Terms of Reference, can be found on our website.
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