States Assembly 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th & 17th July 2020
17 July 2020
The States Assembly began its virtual sitting at 2:30pm on Monday 13th July 2020 and continued into Tuesday 14th July, Wednesday 15th July, Thursday 16th July and Friday 17th July.
Oral Questions
Deputy Inna Gardiner of St. Helier asked the Minister for Infrastructure to advise what progress, if any, had been made with regard to providing free, dedicated parking spaces for hospital staff in Patriotic Street car park?
Richard Renouf, the Minister for Health answered Deputy Gardiner's questions and advised that the Minister for Infrastructure has responded to a petition about this. He stated that during the coronavirus crisis the car park was not in use by the public but now that is changing and as shops are reopening there needs to be a balance between the needs of health care workers and the economy. He added that if free parking were to be were to be implemented it would mean other considerations would have to take place in relation to the loss of income.
In a follow up to this question, Deputy Louise Doublet asked the Health Minister if there had been any dialogue with healthcare workers to see what changes could be made to make their work happier and easier.
The Minister said it is a consideration to see how the healthcare profession can make more attractive to encourage people to become healthcare workers
Deputy Kirsten Morel asked the Chief Minister, John Le Fondré why the minutes of the Scientific and Technical Advisory Cell or official advice from the Medical Officer of Health not shared with either States Members or the public?
The Chief Minister responded and advised that the minutes from these meetings will be published and made public soon. He added that Health Officers have been available to States Members throughout.
Deputy Rob Ward asked the Chief Minister what indicators, if any, is the Government was using in its consideration of whether a return to stricter social distancing measures should be introduced?
The Chief Minister, John Le Fondré advised that there are a number of measures in place to track COVID cases, including qualitative insights and quantitative stats such as number of active cases, and ongoing medical advice. The Chief Minister advised that thanks to the availability of this information, they are able to perform a quick turnaround regarding social distancing rules if they need to be changed.
Questions Without Notice
The Minister for Infrastructure, Kevin Lewis and the Minister for External Relations, Ian Gorst then faced 15 minutes of questions each from States Assembly Members.
The Minister for Infrastructure, Kevin Lewis was first to take questions.
Deputy Carina Alves asked the Minister how soon, if at all, will Minister release properties in the housing portfolio for housing sites?
The Minister for Infrastructure, Kevin Lewis advised that the plan is to release these as soon as possible. He added that contrary to popular opinion huge swathes of land are not owned by the Government but did state there are some older properties that could be passed on.
The Minister for External Relations, Ian Gorst then took questions.
Deputy Kevin Pamplin asked the Minister for External Relations for an update on work that is being done regarding the situation with the St Malo port?
The Minister advised that there were ongoing conversations with French counterparts and that these had continued during the weekend. He added that there is a meeting on Wednesday 15th July and further updates will follow.
In a follow up to a question from Deputy Montfort Tadier, Deputy Mike Higgins asked the Minster for External Relations for examples of when he has raised human rights issues with countries he deals with.
The Minister stated that during meetings with relevant representatives' conversations have addressed this but that he cannot give specific details of these conversations.
Questions Without Notice to any Minister
The Constable of St Helier, Simon Crowcroft asked the Deputy Chief Minister, Lyndon Farnham about the new hospital site. He stated that Islanders are concerned about the two parks being shortlisted for the new hospital site, and asked when will inappropriate areas be taken off the short list?
The Deputy Chief Minister stated that the building and design partners are beginning technical assessments including transport studies, safety, capacity, visual impact studies, ecological studies, planning, clinical consideration and costing. As a result of these, some of those sites might come off list very quickly, and that one or two of the sites on current shortlist may not make final cut. He added this would be done as soon as possible to not worry residents, and added he hoped this would be by end of August.
Deputy Graham Truscott asked the Chief Minister, John Le Fondré about the UK Government making facemasks mandatory on public transport and the current consideration that they may do the same for enclosed spaces such as shops. He asked if this is something to be considered in Jersey?
The Minister for Health and Social Services, Richard Renouf answered the question and stated that it remains the case that the advice is that cloth masks are strongly recommended in enclosed spaces. He added he has asked STAC whether the wearing of these masks should be mandatory and that he was awaiting the advice.
Deputy Kevin Pamplin asked the Chief Minister John Le Fondré about the telephone outage which affected islanders. When speaking Deputy Pamplin made reference to the fact it was reported that reaching 999 was not possible and highlighted the concern this has caused. He asked the Chief Minister to talk about what would happen if this occurred again?
The Chief Minister reassured the Deputy that if anyone had dialled 999 on mobile they could access the emergency services by picking up another network. He added that he is seeking further clarification from JT about the outage and that this had been the worst one in 25 years.
PUBLIC BUSINESS
DRAFT COVID-19 (RATES) (JERSEY) REGULATIONS 202
The Minister for Treasury and Resources, Susie Pinel proposed that the Rates Law be amended to prevent the automatic increase in the Annual Island-wide Rate Figure; keeping the figure at its 2019 level for 2020 to provide further support to Islanders.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Both Constable Simon Crowcroft and Constable Deirdre Mezbourian spoke in support of the proposal.
Constable Len Norman spoke in support of the proposal and said to increase rates, which are essentially a form of tax, would send out totally the wrong message at this time.
Deputy Geoff Southern asked what the link was between Island Wide rates and the alleviation of poverty and welfare on the Island. The Attorney General Mark Temple answered and stated that rates are not
Deputy Mike Higgins asked what research of study has been done to support this proposal.
The Minister, Susie Pinel said that the proposition was from the Parishes and the Constables Committee and is a move forward to help people in a difficult situation.
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the first reading.
38 FOR vs 5 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the second reading.
40 FOR vs 3 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the third reading.
39 FOR vs 4 AGAINST
DRAFT COVID-19 (CONTROL OF TESTING) (JERSEY) REGULATIONS 202-
The Minister for Health and Social Services, Richard Renouf proposed to introduce a regime to regulate COVID-19 testing conducted by private businesses in Jersey. If adopted, the regime would apply to all testing services provided by private operators.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Very little debate followed the proposal and it quickly went to a vote.
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the first reading.
44 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the second reading.
43 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the third reading.
43 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
ENHANCED COVID-19 EXIT STRATEGY COMMUNICATION
Deputy Kevin Pamplin then presented his amended proposal for an Enhanced COVID exit communications strategy. The proposal asked that a number of communications approaches are implemented to share information with the general public regarding developments of COVID in the Island. These include dedicated pages on gov.je to share medical information and testing and tracking information. In addition, Deputy Pamplin's proposal asked that minutes and other key details from the Scientific and Technical Advisory Cell be provided to Scrutiny and that only Ministers with relevant responsibilities should be able to attend STAC meetings. Finally, the proposal asked that a weekly press conference be held by Ministers, which includes the Chief Minister. If adopted, the proposal asked that these measures be implemented by 1st August 2020.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Deputy Kirsten Morel spoke about communication and said that it has be measured in quality and not quantity. Constable Richard Buchanan spoke about the communications strategy and the issues around interpretation. He added that he believes this proposition helps address these issues.
Constable Richard Buchanan urged members to support the proposition and stated he believes it adds to the communications in existence and that these changes would help reassure Islanders.
The Health Minister, Richard Renouf, spoke in support of the proposal and said he was grateful to Deputy Kevin Pamplin for taking on the amendments, which he spoke on. He added that he believes the proposal adds reassurance and enhances public knowledge as to the actions of the Government.
Senator Kristina Moore spoke in support of the proposal and stated that she believed this was something that was much needed. She highlighted the importance of clear communications and praised Deputy Pamplin for bringing this proposal.
The Chief Minister, John Le Fondré spoke to outline the communications efforts that have taken place during COVID to date.
Deputy Kevin Pamplin spoke in response to Member's questions and statements and reiterated the need for a weekly time for Ministers to engage with the public and provide reassurance and certainty.
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT Deputy Pamplin's Enhanced COVID exit strategy communication proposal.
43 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
OPEN BORDERS ARRANGEMENTS (P.89/2020): AMENDMENT
Deputy John Young accepted The Chief Minister's amendment to his proposal and went on to outline the key points of his amended proposal.
Deputy John Young asked that the Minister for Home Affairs, Len Norman and the Minister for Health and Social Services, Richard Renouf to ensure that that the arrangements and processes now in operation to open our borders to persons from outside of Jersey are made as safe and effective as possible in protecting the community from COVID-19.
In order to meet these requirements, Deputy John Young's proposal stated that all persons should receive a PCR test on entry, and anyone not tested on entry should be held in isolation until tested. The proposal also stated that anyone arriving from specified countries into the Island should be required to self-isolate in their accommodation for the timeline stipulated in the guidance at that time, even if they have tested negative before departure. People arriving are also asked to use private transport where possible and requested the Minister for Infrastructure, Kevin Lewis to work with transport operators and make the necessary arrangements. Furthermore, the proposal detailed restrictions around arrivals visiting the hospital, care homes, the prison and anyone at high risk of infection. Finally, the proposal asks these measures to be put in place for at least 6 weeks and then reviewed, but also states that relevant Ministers add any additional or alternative measures if the risk of infection requires it
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Deputy Scott Wickenden spoke to praise the teams that have been working on the testing and tracking processes now in place. Deputy Russell Labey highlighted the importance of how those being tested are treated, and the concerns around those who are asymptomatic. The Chief Minister, John Le Fondré said that Deputy Young's proposal was effectively crystallising the existing measures.
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT Deputy Young's proposal
40 FOR vs 3 AGAINST
DRAFT ROAD TRAFFIC (No. 64) (JERSEY) REGULATIONS 202-
The Minister for Infrastructure, Kevin Lewis proposed changes to the Road Traffic Law, which set out to make changes to the laws regarding the wearing of seatbelts for children under 14. If adopted, the changes would not only improve the safety for children, but also ensure that any legal inconsistences between the UK/EU and Jersey are removed and reduce confusion when residents are travelling. The proposal also ensured that buses and coaches were included in the seatbelt requirement. The fines for not complying with these new laws would be raised up to a maximum of £1,000.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Deputy Gregory Guida asked how this proposal works with classic cars which do not have seatbelts by design.
Constable Mike Jackson said he believed this proposal was a long time coming and asked the Minister if he had spoken with the Taxi Driver's association regarding the impact this proposal would have.
The Minister for Infrastructure stated that Classic cars were exempt, as were Taxi's if they do not have the specific provisions.
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the Minister's proposal in the first reading
43 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the Minister's proposal in the second reading
45 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the Minister's proposal in the third reading
45 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
DRAFT FINANCIAL SERVICES (DISCLOSURE AND PROVISION OF INFORMATION) (JERSEY) LAW 202
The Assistant Minister for External Relations, Richard Buchanan proposed the Draft Financial Services Law. The Law required information be regularly provided to the Jersey Financial Services Commission regarding the identity of shares and securities owners. The Minister's proposal had been through a scrutiny review and the Law Officer's stated the draft Law is compatible with the European Convention on Human Rights.
READ THE PROPSAL HERE
Deputy Kirsten Morel spoke on behalf of the Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel and thanked the Minister for his engagement with them regarding the questions that had been raised regarding human rights.
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the Minister's proposal in the first reading
42 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the Minister's proposal in the second reading
43 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the Minister's proposal in the third reading
41 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
STATES OF JERSEY DEVELOPMENT COMPANY: AMENDMENTS TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
The Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources, Lindsay Ash proposed to approve various appointments and extensions to the States of Jersey Development Company board. Deputy Lindsay Ash presented the proposal which asked States Members to vote on the appointment of 2 new board members, the extension of the appointments of 2 existing members and asked for changes to the company structure to allow an additional non-executive director.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Senator Kristina Moore spoke on the comments presented by the Corporate Services Scrutiny panel and raised that they had raised concerns over the lack of succession planning in the board and the lack of Diversity in the members of the board.
Deputy David Johnson advised he would support the proposition but raised concerns over the small pool of people they are able to choose from for these roles. Deputy Jeremy Maçon also commented on this topic and said it was important to create the pathways for new people to access these positions.
Deputy Rob Ward said he believes it is time to re-evaluate the posts and a number of Members such as Deputy John Young raised concerns about the appointments. Deputy Young stated he could not support the proposal nor object to it and would likely abstain in the vote. Deputy Kirsten Morel said he was incensed about the proposal and it was wrong to extend the position of a director to up to 12 years as people can get too comfortable.
Deputy Rowland Huelin urged members to focus on the core of the proposal.
Deputy Montfort Tadier said when looking at the website for the States of Jersey Development Company board it's easy to see "how white" they are.
Deputy Geoff Southern said that there was a near identical debate in the past regarding this and he agrees with Deputy Morel and will be voting against this.
Constable Karen Stone urged members not to support the proposition and called the lack of diversity a total failure of corporate governance.
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources' proposal to make changes to the States of Jersey Development Companies members and structure.
22 FOR vs 21 AGAINST - 1 ABSTENTION
VARIATION TO LODGING PERIOD FOR GOVERNMENT PLAN LODGED IN 2020
The Chief Minister, John Le Fondré then proposed that a minimum lodging period of 9 weeks should apply to a Government Plan which is due to be lodged in 2020. He outlined that due to the impact of COVID-19 there have been significant delays in development of the Government Plan for this year and was therefore seeking to reduce the time of the lodging period from the normal 12 weeks to 9 weeks.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Senator Kristina Moore spoke on behalf of Scrutiny and said that she was disappointed by this proposal but stated that she sees, at this time, there is no better option.
Deputy Rob Ward sought reassurance from the Chief Minister that this reduction of lodging period for the Government plan was only for 2020 which the Chief Minister provided.
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal to reduce the lodging period.
40 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
DRAFT PUBLIC EMPLOYEES (CONTRIBUTORY RETIREMENT SCHEME) (MISCELLANEOUS AMENDMENTS) (No. 2) (JERSEY) REGULATIONS
The Draft Public Employee regulations proposed to make changes to 4 contributory retirement schemes. The changes related to a maximum amount of any small pension accrued which may be exchanged in favour of a tax-free lump sum. If approved, the proposal would also seek to clarify types of payments from certain pension schemes and clarify the date these changes would come into effect.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the first reading
38 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the second reading
42 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the third reading
44 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
DRAFT PUBLIC EMPLOYEES (PENSION SCHEME) (MISCELLANEOUS AMENDMENTS) (No. 2) (JERSEY) REGULATIONS
The States Employment Board is now proposing several small amendments to clarify the Public Employees' Pension scheme regulations, including wording and date changes and amends to ensure better access to funds.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the first reading
44 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the second reading
41 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the proposal in the third reading
42 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
GREEN LANES AND QUIET LANES: PRIORITY TO PEDESTRIANS, CYCLISTS AND HORSE RIDERS (P.79/2020) – AMENDMENT
Deputy Rob Ward then accepted the amendment of the Comité des Connétables to his Green Lanes and quiet lanes proposal. The amendment focused on the changing the classification from Green lanes and quiet lanes to 'designated roads'. The proposal stated that vehicles should only be allowed on these designated roads for essential travel. Deputy Rob Ward's proposal also asked the Comité des Connétables to designate the lanes in each Parish, bring forward the necessary legislation for this, if deemed appropriate, by the first quarter of 2021. It also asked to update road signs and markings and communicate the changes with the public.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Constable of St Lawrence, Deirdre Mezbourian spoke on the proposal to clarify the amendments of the Comité des Connétables.
Deputy Jeremy Macon and Deputy Scott Wickenden sought clarification from the Attorney General, Mark Temple on several definitions within the proposal.
Deputy Mike Higgins spoke on the proposition and said he fundamentally objects to the proposal and that he views it as a form of discrimination. He added that he believed there are many hidden jewels on these roads and some people, for example people with disabilities, that may not be able to access these.
Deputy Kevin Lewis, the Minister for Infrastructure, spoke on the proposal and said the non-essential travel part of the proposition would be hard to enforce and take considerable time of Officers and added he is not sure he can support the proposal.
Constable John Le Bailly said he was not support of the proposal and Deputy Steve Ahier said that the change of these lanes could push up house prices in the country and make it harder for people to purchase these kinds of properties.
Constable Sadie Rennard said she would be voting against the proposal as it's not needed.
Constable Mike Jackson spoke on the benefits of the Green Lanes and Deputy Graham Truscott highlighted the need to avoid lots of additional signs popping up.
Senator Sam Mézec said he wholeheartedly supported the proposition. Deputy John Young said he believes the States Assembly are very good at finding reasons to stop the kinds of proposals even getting the starting gate. He urged members to support the proposal.
Deputy Russell Labey said he felt some of the areas of this proposal were 'dodgy'.
Senator Steve Pallett said he was disappointed Deputy Ward didn't work with the cycling group regarding the proposal. He added that we have to accept that the 'car can't rule anymore' in Jersey. He urged Members to vote for this and said it was a small step but "we have to take small steps as the Island won't accept big steps." Steve Luce, the Deputy of St Martin also spoke in support of the proposal.
Constable Richard Buchanan said that he believed the proposal was well intended but there are significant issues with it, but he did add he believes it is possible to resolve them. He said he would support the proposal.
Senator Lyndon Farnham said he was having trouble supporting this as he cannot buy into the idea of the designated roads being for 'essential travel' only.
Senator Ian Gorst said he felt "terribly conflicted" on the debate. He said he is not anti-car but he did not believe this proposal wants to be anti-car but wants to find ways of encouraging these other forms of transport safely. He encouraged members not to focus on the problems of the proposal, but to focus on the opportunities.
Constable Len Norman spoke in support of the proposal and The Chief Minister, John Le Fondré said he was yet to make his mid up on the proposal but would listen to the rest of the debate with interest.
Deputy Scott Wickenden spoke on the proposal and questioned if it was necessary. He also raised concerns about there being a lack of definition around the phrase 'essential travel'.
Deputy Ward responded to questions and comments from Member and said his proposition was about driving cultural and behavioural change.
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT Deputy Rob Ward's amended Green and quiet lanes proposal.
25 FOR vs 21 AGAINST
EXTENDED LIMITS OF CO-PAYMENTS FOR G.P. CONSULTATIONS: YOUNG PEOPLE AND PREGNANT WOMEN (P.80/2020) – AMENDMENT
Deputy Carina Alves presented her amended proposal regarding the extension of GP co-payments for children and pregnant women. Her proposal asked that States Members vote to make GP visits free for children from 0 years up to 17 years. It also proposed to reduce the cost of the pregnancy package from £120 to zero. The proposal also asked that Minister for Health and Social Services work to with the Minister of Social Security and other Ministers to identify appropriate funding to facilitate these changes. Finally, the proposal asked that the relevant Ministers seek to take the necessary steps to make the proposed changes before the implementation of the affordable access to primary healthcare scheme in 2021.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Senator Sam Mézec said that by adopting this proposition the States Assembly could change the situation for people who are forced to choose inferior healthcare due to a lack of money.
The Minister for Health and Social Services, Richard Renouf asked the Attorney General, Mark Temple, to clarify the guidance from the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Deputy Alves had made reference to in the appendix of her proposal. The Attorney General advised that there is an obligation on States Members to strive to provide the highest obtainable standard of health. He stated there isn't an express right to free health care for children but there are clear obligations for States Members to take steps to provide healthcare for children.
The Health Minister, Richard Renouf then said that he was frustrated that Deputy Alves has decided to submit this proposal. He stated that there are a number of vulnerable groups of people who need assistance with funding and added that providing free health care for all children may take funds away from other healthcare models currently in development. He said this may not be sustainable in the medium to longer term and the models they take on must be sustainable.
Deputy Louise Doublet reminded members that the Assembly has agreed to put children first and stated "that means all children." She added that she hopes all members would support Deputy Alves' proposition.
Deputy Lindsay Ash stated he believes the Health Minister is looking to the best model and happy to give him time to do this. He added that he believes Deputy Alves is one of the most genuine people in the Assembly.
Constable Richard Buchanan said he thinks the Assembly has to be careful with the funding available and that he feels for this reason he could not support the current proposal. Constable Sadie Rennard said that as seniors are means tested she also didn't feel she could support this.
Deputy Kevin Pamplin stated that he believes the Assembly needs to look at the Island's health care structure so it "works best for all of us."
Deputy John Young spoke on the proposal and said, for him, it was not purely a money issue, and that he believes at some point it may be necessary to examine a new healthcare funding model. He added he felt uncomfortable not approving this but was yet to make his mind up.
The Minister for Social Security, Judy Martin said that to give all children free healthcare would make the pot smaller for other healthcare needs. She said that children who are in receipt of income support get extra money for doctor's visits. She urged members to get behind the Health Minister and the new healthcare model that is being worked on, which cannot be done if this proposal is passed.
Senator Tracey Vallois stated that she was not sure how to vote at this time but that there were considerations such as a potential second wave of COVID to take into account. Deputy Kirsten Morel said he didn't feel it was the right thing to support this proposition at this time due to the impact of that money being taken away from other services at this time.
Deputy Mike Higgins spoke in support of the proposal. Deputy Geoff Southern said he wanted to refocus on the commitments of the Assembly to ensure equal access to health care for Islanders at every stage of life.
Deputy Steve Luce said that he found himself thinking, in the grand scheme of things, the cost to cover this 5 month period of free healthcare for children being proposed is not insurmountable.
Susie Pinel, the Minister for Treasury and Resources spoke on the proposal and said she cannot support the demand on the public purse at this time.
The Chief Minister, John Le Fondré spoke on the proposal and said "this is not just about money." He added if they were to put something together to respond to this proposal it will slow down the better solution being worked on by the Health Minister.
Deputy Montfort Tadier said that some people fall through the cracks and are unable to fund medical visits. He stated that he believed some States Members have had their speeches written for them by Members of Government to shut down the proposition.
Deputy Jeremy Maçon said that the Health Minister is working to a plan and is committed to it and believes the Assembly should support him. Deputy Scott Wickenden has said a short-term gain is not "putting children first". He said the Assembly should not support this "short term bonus" and urged Members to support the Health Minister's long-term proposal and reject this proposition.
Deputy Jess Perchard said this is not the disruptive proposal it's been made out to be by some Members of the Assembly.
Senator Sarah Ferguson spoke on the needs of the elderly and said that to look after one and not the other is grossly divisive and grossly unfair. She would not be backing the proposal.
In her summary, Deputy Carina Alves stated that Vulnerability does not come from economic status.
The States Assembly voted to REJECT Deputy Carina Alves' proposal
15 FOR vs 29 AGAINST – 1 ABSTENTION
G.P. FEES AND INCOME SUPPORT (P.81/2020): AMENDMENT
Deputy Geoff Southern then presented his amended proposal which asked States Members to provide free GP consultations to those who share a household with someone on income support.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Deputy John Young said, opting for a quick fix, as well motivated as it is, was not the answer. He added he wanted the new arrangements that are due in January, to support all vulnerable people including children, the elderly and the chronically ill.
The Health Minister, Richard Renouf said that in his proposition, Deputy Southern was taking away his role of deciding on the vulnerable groups that are in need of help. He added that the piece of work being done on the Healthcare model will address this. He reassured Member's his department was on track to get this work done but if he had to 'rapidly put something together' in the next 3 weeks in response to this proposal it would delay the work on the Affordable access to Primary Care Scheme. He asked States Members to reject Deputy Southern's proposition.
Deputy Rob Ward said if the States Assembly vote to reject this proposal it would be a missed opportunity to maintain support for people who need it most.
Senator Sam Mézec spoke and highlighted the type and speed of decisions taken by the Assembly during the Coronavirus pandemic, which included the decision to reduce cost of GP visits for certain groups. He added this was achieved because there was a will to do so, and now, there has been a choice by some in the Assembly to effectively double the cost of GP visits for the most financially vulnerable.
Deputy Montfort Tadier spoke on the proposal and said he doesn't want anyone in Jersey to not visit the GP because they can't afford to do that. He added he supported the proposal.
The States Assembly voted to REJECT Deputy Geoff Southern's proposal
12 FOR vs 28 AGAINST
INVESTIGATION INTO THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A DIGITAL REGISTER OF LANDLORDS AND TENANTS (P.82/2020): AMENDMENT
Deputy Rowland Huelin proposed that the Council of Ministers investigate the provisions and administration of the Control of Housing and Work Law and the Lodging Homes Law, to determine the feasibility of using this legislation to establish a digital register of landlords and tenants. It was asked that register cover landlords and tenants of accommodation in the following categories: Qualified accommodation, registered accommodation, lodging houses and lodgings in private dwellings. Additionally, the Deputy requested that the findings are reported back to the Assembly by 1st September 2020.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Senator Sam Mézec, Deputy John Young, Deputy Rob Ward, Senator Ian Gorst and Senator Sarah Ferguson all asked questions of the Attorney General, Mark Temple around the legalities of the data collection proposed within the proposal.
Senator Sarah Ferguson spoke in support of this proposal on the basis of it being more efficient and economical. Deputy Scott Wickenden spoke in support of the proposal as did Constable Mike Jackson who said it served towards practical and sensible legislation.
Deputy Kirsten Morel also supported the proposal and the most efficient and elegant solutions.
Deputy John Young raised some questions around the need for this register when there are existing alternatives.
Deputy Mike Higgins applauded Deputy Rowland Huelin for bringing the proposition and said that Deputy Huelin wants information based on evidence and he wants that too. Deputy Lindsay Ash also supported this.
Constable Richard Buchanan said the register would be good for landlords and the Government and supported the proposal.
Senator Sam Mézec said the register proposed offers Islanders absolutely nothing in terms of sourcing better housing. He added that the though this debate was a "waste of time" and that the request to use data retrospectively for the purpose of this register sends out a terrible message.
Deputy Inna Gardiner spoke in support of the proposal. Deputy Rob Ward asked Members to think carefully and not be 'duped' by the proposal. He stated he had hoped the Chief Minister would support his Ministers who have stated he does not
David Johnson, Deputy of St Mary said he was inclined to support this proposition. Senator Ian Gorst asked if the Assembly sh9uld take their blinkers off and see if this work can be delivered in a better way.
Deputy Montfort Tadier said the key point of this debate is not about a digital solution, he said the Assembly needed to find political solution to a political problem.
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT Deputy Rowland Huelin's proposal to investigate the establishment of a digital register of landlords and tenants.
32 FOR vs 10 AGAINST
DRAFT LIMITED PARTNERSHIPS (CONTINUANCE) (JERSEY) REGULATIONS
The Minister for External Relations, Ian Gorst proposed to allow eligible foreign limited partnerships to continue as a limited partnership within Jersey if certain requirements are met.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
Deputy Geoff Southern asked the Minister if there will be any tax revenue from these limited partnerships.
The Minister for External Relations stated that these limited partnerships will be regulated to the very highest standard and they are most likely to be taxed at 10%
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the Minister for External Relations proposal in the first reading
42 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the Minister for External Relations proposal in the second reading
41 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
The States Assembly voted to ADOPT the Minister for External Relations proposal in the third reading
42 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
JERSEY HERITAGE TRUST: APPOINTMENT OF CHAIR
The Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lyndon Farnham proposed to appoint Mr Tim Brown as the new Chair of the Jersey Heritage Trust for a four-year term commencing on 1st August 2020.
READ THE PROPOSAL HERE
The States Assembly has voted to ADOPT the proposal to appoint Mr Tim Brown as Chair of the Jersey Heritage Trust.
42 FOR vs 0 AGAINST
In-committee Island Plan debate
The States Assembly members met on the 17th July to hold an in-committee debate on the Island plan.
The Minister for the Environment, John Young provided the states Assembly with a report and invited their contributions
READ THE REPORT HERE
Themes that came up in the debate included, the need for housing, including affordable housing, sheltered housing, a sustainable building approach, green fields, appropriate building sites for housing and the consideration of community within these plans.
A number of members spoke about the need for green spaces and the inclusion of trees in any new developments and around the Island.
Allotments, a marine park, community spaces for all generations within Parish communites, the Hospital, mental health and a focus on agriculture were all spoken about.
A population policy, land usage and fort regent were also discussed.
