States Meeting Transcript - 3rd February 2015

STATES OF JERSEY OFFICIAL REPORT

TUESDAY, 3rd FEBRUARY 2015

COMMUNICATIONS BY THE PRESIDING OFFICER ......................................5

1. The Bailiff :..............................................................................5

APPOINTMENT OF MINISTERS, COMMITTEES AND PANELS..........................5

2. Nomination of the following 3 persons as unelected members of the Public Accounts Committee - Mr. Gary Drinkwater, Mr. Robert John Parker, Mr. Michael John Robinson..................................................................................5

2.1 Deputy A.D. Lewis of St. Helier (Chairman, Public Accounts Committee):..............5

QUESTIONS......................................................................................5

3. Written Questions........................................................................5

1. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY REGARDING THE INCREASED USE OF FOOD BANKS:..............5
2. DEPUTY M.R. HIGGINS OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING POPULATIONS LEVELS AND THE NUMBER OF APPLICANTS FOR REGISTRATION CARDS UNDER THE CONTROL OF HOUSING AND WORK (JERSEY) LAW 2012: ..................................................................6
3. DEPUTY M.R. HIGGINS OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS REGARDING THE NUMBERS IMPRISONED AT H.M.P. LA MOYE WITH MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES SINCE 2009:....................................13
4. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING THE ACTIONS PROPOSED BY MINISTERS TO ADDRESS THE REQUIREMENT TO REDUCE THEIR BUDGETS BY 2 PER CENT IN 2015:..........................15
5. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR TREASURY AND RESOURCES REGARDING THE RESOLUTION OF THE J.T./GIGABIT DISPUTE: .........................................................................................16
6. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING MEASURES TO REDUCE POVERTY IN THE ISLAND:............................17
7. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGARDING THE NUMBER OF LICENSED OR REGISTERED POSTS CREATED BY INWARD INVESTMENT:....................................17
8. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR TREASURY AND RESOURCES REGARDING THE TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE APPRAISAL OF THE SITE OPTIONS FOR THE NEW HOSPITAL:................18
9. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY REGARDING TESTS USED TO ASSESS THE LEVEL OF

IMPAIRMENT SUFFERED BY APPLICANTS FOR MEDICAL COMPONENTS OF INCOME SUPPORT:..................................................................19

10. DEPUTY G. P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING THE ACCEPTANCE OF AN ECONOMY WHERE ONLY A FEW DO SPECTACULARLY WELL': ..........................................................20
11. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR HOUSING REGARDING LIMITS ON RECHARGES APPLIED BY ANDIUM HOMES AND OTHER SOCIAL HOUSING TRUSTS:................................................21

4. Oral Questions...........................................................................22

1. Deputy M. Tadier of St. Brelade of the Minister for Education, Sport and Culture regarding G.C.S.E. results: .............................................................22 Deputy R.G. Bryans of St. Helier (The Minister for Education, Sport and Culture):..........22

1. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................23
2. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier:....................................................23
3. Deputy J.A. Hilton of St. Helier:........................................................23 4.1.4. Deputy J.A. Hilton:.....................................................................23

5. Deputy J.A. Hilton......................................................................24
6. Deputy J.A. Martin of St. Helier:.......................................................24
7. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................24
8. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................24
9. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................25

2. Deputy G.P. Southern of the Minister for Social Security regarding sanctions imposed on job seekers leaving a job without sufficient reason:.....................................25 Deputy S.J. Pinel of St. Clement (The Minister for Social Security):..........................25

1. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................26
2. Deputy J.A. Martin:....................................................................26
3. Deputy J.A. Martin:....................................................................26
4. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................26
5. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................27
6. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................27
7. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................27

3. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the J.T./Gigabit dispute:................................................................28 Senator A.J.H. Maclean (The Minister for Treasury and Resources):.........................28

1. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :....................................................................29
2. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................29
3. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................29
4. Deputy A.D. Lewis :....................................................................30
5. Deputy A.D. Lewis :....................................................................30
6. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................30
7. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................31
8. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :....................................................................31

4. Deputy K.C. Lewis of St. Saviour of the Minister for Transport and Technical Services regarding delays in the implementation of the Draft Road Works and Events (Jersey) Law 201-':..............................................................................32 Deputy E.J. Noel of St. Lawrence (The Minister for Transport and Technical Services):......32

4.4.1 Deputy K.C. Lewis :....................................................................32

5. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of the Chief Minister regarding reform of the administrative structure of the Parish of St. Helier:....................................................32

Senator I.J. Gorst (The Chief Minister):......................................................32

1. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :....................................................................33
2. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................33
3. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................33
4. Connétable A.S. Crowcroft of St. Helier:...............................................34
5. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................34
6. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :....................................................................35

6. Deputy G.P. Southern of the Minister for Social Security regarding the assessment of the impairment components of IncomeSupport:............................................35 Deputy S.J. Pinel of St. Clement (The Minister for Social Security):..........................35

1. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................36
2. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................36
3. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................36
4. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................37

7. Deputy M. Tadier of the Minister for Housing regarding the introduction of an empty property tax as a method to help alleviate the housing shortage and bring down rental prices:..................................................................................37 Deputy A.E. Pryke of Trinity (The Minister for Housing):....................................37

1. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................37
2. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................38

5. Questions to Ministers without notice - The Minister for Housing....................38

1. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................38 The Deputy of Trinity (The Minister for Housing):...........................................38
2. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour:.................................................39
3. Deputy A.D. Lewis :....................................................................39

5.3.1 Deputy A.D. Lewis :....................................................................39

4. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................39

1. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................40
2. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................40

5. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................40

5.5.1 Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................40

6. Deputy A.D. Lewis :....................................................................40
7. Deputy J.A. Martin:....................................................................41

5.7.1 Deputy J.A. Martin:....................................................................41

8. Connétable D.W. Mezbourian of St. Lawrence:........................................41

5.8.1 The Connétable of St. Lawrence:.......................................................42

6. Questions to Ministers without notice - The Minister for Planning and Environment ...........................................................................................42

1. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................42 Deputy S.G. Luce of St. Martin (The Minister for Planning and Environment): ..............42
   2. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................43

2. Deputy J.A. Hilton:.....................................................................43
3. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................44
4. Deputy J.A. Martin:....................................................................44
5. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier:.......................................................44
6. Deputy A.D. Lewis :....................................................................44

6.6.1 Deputy A.D. Lewis :....................................................................45

7. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :................................................................45

6.7.1 Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :................................................................45

8. Deputy J.A. Hilton:.....................................................................46

PUBLIC BUSINESS.............................................................................46

7. Draft Public Elections (Amendment No. 5) (Jersey) Regulation 201- (P.174/2014)....46

7.1 The Connétable of St. Clement (Chairman, Comité des Connétable s):..................46

8. H.M.S. Iron Duke: the authority to march "with Colours flying, drums beating and bayonets fixed in Jersey". (P.177/2014).................................................48

Deputy K.L. Moore of St. Peter (The Minister for Home Affairs):............................48 8.1 The Connétable of St. Lawrence (Assistant Minister for Home Affairs - rapporteur): ..48

1. Connétable C.H. Taylor of St. John : ....................................................49
2. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................49
3. The Connétable of St. Lawrence:.......................................................50

9. Ratification of the Agreement on the exchange of information relating to tax matters between the Government of Jersey and the Government of Romania (P.178/2014):..51

9.1 Senator P.M. Bailhache (The Minister for External Relations):.........................51

10. Draft Taxation (Exchange of Information with Third Countries) (Amendment No. 12) (Jersey) Regulations 201- (P.179/2014): ................................................51

10.1 Senator P.M. Bailhache (The Minister for External Relations):.........................51

ARRANGEMENT OF PUBLIC BUSINESS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS ....................52

11. The Connétable of St. Clement (Chairman, Privileges and Procedures Committee):....52

1. Deputy J.M. Maçon of St. Saviour:.....................................................52
2. The Connétable of St. Clement:........................................................52

ADJOURNMENT................................................................................53

[9:31]

The Roll was called and the Deputy Greffier led the Assembly in Prayer. Connétable L.Norman of St. Clement :

Sir, just before the sitting starts properly, I hope you will allow me on behalf of Members to welcome you to your first sitting as Bailiff and to wish you well in your term of office. [Approbation]

The Bailiff :

Thank you, Connétable , that is very much appreciated. I know there will be some who will think that if all speeches were as short as that in this Chamber it would be all to the good. [Laughter]  I shall certainly keep mine short. Thank you very much; I look forward to being of service to Members and to the Assembly.

COMMUNICATIONS BY THE PRESIDING OFFICER

1. The Bailiff :

Dealing first with the Consolidated Order Paper under A, Communications from the Chair. I am very pleased to welcome His Excellency Lieutenant Governor as is customary. [Approbation]

APPOINTMENT OF MINISTERS, COMMITTEES AND PANELS

2. Nomination of the following 3 persons as unelected members of the Public Accounts Committee - Mr. Gary Drinkwater, Mr. Robert John Parker, Mr. Michael John Robinson.

2.1 Deputy A.D. Lewis of St. Helier (Chairman, Public Accounts Committee):

I am delighted to propose Mr. Drinkwater, Mr. Parker and Mr. Robinson. We have been through a process in the last few weeks. I am delighted to say that honorary service in Jersey is alive and kicking. We had some excellent applications and shortlisted and appointed these 3, or we would like the Assembly to appoint these 3. I have nothing more to say other than I hope Members have had the opportunity to read their details which were contained in the Order Paper and if you have questions I am happy to answer them, otherwise I call upon the seconder.

The Bailiff :

Is the proposition seconded? [Seconded] Are there any questions for the Chairman? Then I declare Mr. Drinkwater, Mr. Parker and Mr. Robinson duly elected.

QUESTIONS

3. Written Questions

1. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY REGARDING THE INCREASED USE OF FOOD BANKS:

Question

What information, if any, does the Minister have as a result of her investigations into the increased use of food banks on the Island and, if none, will she investigate this issue and report progress to members and, in particular, will she agree to investigate the impact of the Income Support sanctions regime on the need for food banks and other charitable support to alleviate hardship?

Answer

In common with my ministerial colleagues, I was interested to read the recent newspaper articles about the increased use of food banks in the Island. As the Minister responsible for financial support to low-income families, I immediately tasked officers with meeting with representatives of each of the groups that offer this service. These meetings have been taking place over the last couple of weeks, and have been an opportunity for us to strengthen existing working contacts with third-sector groups and discuss any recent pressures experienced by each group. Officers have also attended meetings with the Citizens' Advice Bureau and the Shelter Trust, as these are also organisations who offer advice and assistance to people who might be struggling in the Island.

I can report that the meetings so far have been helpful and that the Social Security Department will continue working with these partner organisations to investigate the wider reasons that people are approaching them. We plan to work with the organisations to give the option of a uniform means of recording anonymous data that captures the reasons that people approach each group for help. We have also set up direct contact so that organisations can, with the clients' permission, contact us to ensure that people are receiving all of the financial help to which they are entitled.

It is clear that each group has different criteria  for assisting people. One of the fundamental principles of our tax-funded benefit system is a set of consistent rules including the requirement that people may only access financial support once they have been in the Island and contributing to the economy for a minimum of five years. It is therefore likely, for example, that some recipients of food are people who do not meet this residency condition.

Income Support also has robust financial sanctions for people who claim benefit but who do not do enough to look for work. It is entirely the choice of a charitable organisation whether or not to help somebody who has ignored repeated warnings and put themselves in this situation, but it is the case that the principles underlying these financial sanctions were firmly endorsed by this Assembly. I do not agree that these rules create hardship, but consider that they are an essential element to ensure that the benefits system is able to perform its function in supporting people to move out of dependency by helping them find employment.

2. DEPUTY M.R. HIGGINS OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING POPULATIONS LEVELS AND THE NUMBER OF APPLICANTS FOR REGISTRATION CARDS UNDER THE CONTROL OF HOUSING AND WORK (JERSEY) LAW 2012:

Question

Will the Chief Minister advise members:

1. the current estimated size of the Jersey working population;
2. the number of people who applied for registration cards under the Control of Housing and Work (Jersey) Law 2012 during the period 1 October 2014 to December 2014 breaking down the numbers into the nationality and country of origin of applicants;

3. the total number of people who have been issued with registration cards under the Control of Housing and Work (Jersey) Law 2012, to date since the law came into effect breaking down the numbers into the nationality and country of origin of those registered.

Answer

1. In June 2014, (the latest figures published by the Statistics Unit), the working population was 58,330,  of  which  49,980  were  in  the private  sector. (This  represented  an annual  increase  in employment of 620, of which 420 was in the private sector).
2. The figures below show all those people applying for registration cards under the Control of Housing and Work (Jersey) Law 2012 during the requested time period. Applying for a registration card does not mean people are new to the Island, as everyone needs a registration card when moving house or changing jobs. When issuing cards we ask for an applicant's nationality, not country of origin.

3. The figures below show all those people applying for registration cards under the Control of Housing and Work (Jersey) Law 2012 during the requested time period. Applying for a registration card does not mean people are new to the Island, as everyone needs a registration card when moving house or changing jobs. When issuing cards we ask for an applicant's nationality, not country of origin.

Nigerian 1 Senegalese 1 Ukrainian 1 Total 37,833

3. DEPUTY  M.R. HIGGINS  OF  ST.  HELIER  OF  THE  MINISTER  FOR HOME AFFAIRS  REGARDING  THE  NUMBERS  IMPRISONED  AT  H.M.P. LA  MOYE WITH MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES SINCE 2009:

Question

Will the Minister advise members:

1. the numbers and percentage of those convicted and imprisoned at H.M.P. La Moye in each year between 1st January 2009 to 31st December 2014 who were diagnosed as having mental health issues –

1. at the time of their admission;
2. when they were released from prison; and,
3. the  percentage  of the total prison  population  during  these  periods  these  people represented?

2. the number of staff and facilities available totreat these prisoners whilst in prison, together with the actual sums spent on dealing with prisoners with mental health issues during the periods set out above together with the percentages of the total prison budget;
3. what provision is put in place to assist those prisoners who are released from prison with mental health issues, detailing the number of people involved, the facilities made available and monies allocated during the time period set out above; and,
4. what liaison/cooperation, if any, takes place with the mental health service ofthe Health and Social Services Department and how effective this liaison/cooperation is considered to be?

Answer

1. Response

It is not possible to provide a definitive response to such a question as there are many differing interpretations of what might be described as "mental health issues". Anxiety, hopelessness and depression are likely to be a feature for many prisoners at the point of admission to the prison or at some stage of a custodial sentence but they do not necessarily require mental health intervention.

All prisoners are interviewed and assessed by a registered nurse on admission to La Moye. This process covers their mental health and well-being, including any risk of self-harm and physical health matters.

Specific data cannot be produced without detailed analysis of confidential, individual  medical records. However, the following table provides details of referrals to the psychiatrist and also the Community Psychiatric Nurse, which gives an indication of the numbers referred to Mental Health Services  for  assessment  or  support. Those transferred to  Orchard House  or  UK  facilities are detained as patients under the Mental Health Law albeit Prison Officers provide security at the former.

* reduced CPN provision for several months while recruiting

2. Response

The Jersey Prison Service employs a Healthcare Manager (Civil Service Grade 12) and a team of 5 qualified nurses (1 x Registered Mental Nurse and 4 Registered General Nurses) to provide healthcare for all prisoners. It isn't possible to say what proportion of their time is spent dealing with mental health issues.

There are no in-patient beds in La Moye prison. Individuals receiving treatment are dispersed in the general  prisoner  population  and  they  have  access  to  the  same  facilities  and  regime  as  other prisoners (the equivalent of care in the community). In exceptional cases, some may have to be segregated for their own safety (or the safety of others) but they may not meet the criteria for detention under the Mental Health Law so they remain in La Moye.

The Psychiatrist is a contracted in service and he attends for approximately 2 hours per week. This is paid for by the Prison Service. The CPN attends one day per week and this is funded by HSS. Prisoners also have access to a GP service of 5 sessions of approximately 2 hours per week, as well as emergency call- outs if required. This is paid for by the Prison Service.

A Samaritan service is also available, via weekly visits by community based volunteers and the prison also provides a 24hr phone service to the Samaritans. They also train prisoners to provide a listener' service; that is prisoners who are trained to provide support and advice to individuals who are in distress.

The table below shows percentage of the total budget spent on Healthcare. This includes the salary costs of the Healthcare Manager and nursing staff, the contracted in services (G.Ps., psychiatrist, dentist, optician), prescribed drugs and other medical supplies.

3. Response

Every prisoner is interviewed by healthcare staff around 10 days prior to release. This is to assess their short-term needs on liberation and arrange appointments, prescriptions or inform external agencies where appropriate. It also provides the opportunity to refer to the GP, CPN or Psychiatrist pre and post release if required.

Ongoing mental health issues after release are a matter for Health & Social Services rather than Home Affairs but the visiting CPN will arrange to see individuals pre and post release for follow up if deemed appropriate.

4. Response

At present there is considerable cooperation between the mental health service and Prison Service at various levels. Relationships at practitioner level are very good and senior managers in both departments have worked hard in recent years to gain a better understanding of each other's needs.

There is signed Memorandum of Understanding in place between Orchard House and La Moye related to the management of prisoners who are patients in Orchard House.

4. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING THE ACTIONS PROPOSED BY MINISTERS TO ADDRESS THE REQUIREMENT TO REDUCE THEIR BUDGETS BY 2 PER CENT IN 2015:

Question

Will the Chief Minister undertake to publish the  list of actions proposed by Ministers to address the requirement contained in the Budget 2015 to reduce their budgets by 2% and, if so, when will he do so and, if not, why not?

Answer

During Questions Without Notice on 20th January 2015, I said it would seem reasonable to bring a list of actions proposed by departments to reduce their expected spend by 2% in 2015 to the Assembly "as soon as possible". I stand by that commitment, but cannot yet say when "as soon as possible" will be.

The work on identifying those actions is ongoing. An early exposure of the options being considered would not be of any benefit given that some of them may not be pursued.

I will also repeat my words of the 20th January, by saying that the important point is that departments should be delivering efficiencies and reducing their spending by the requested 2 % in order to balance their budgets.

5. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR TREASURY AND RESOURCES REGARDING THE RESOLUTION OF THE J.T./GIGABIT DISPUTE: Question

What progress, if any, has the Minister as shareholder representative made in resolving the Gigabit dispute and, in particular, does he and JT have fresh proposals to deliver the project before the end of 2019 and, if so, at what cost to the stakeholders?

Answer

Deputy Mézec accepted an invitation from JT to gain a better understanding of the progress and challenges of rolling out the Gigabit programme when he toured JT's premises on 17 December 2014. Following this, on 19 January 2015, all States members were then invited to a presentation when progress and challenges of the Gigabit programme were further laid out. A copy of that presentation was provided to all States members via email on 19 January 2015.

As part of that presentation, JT made clear that it required a number of months to work through some difficult and technically challenging issues, following which it would report back to States members.

The Minister intends allowing JT the necessary space and time to complete those ongoing discussions, which involve a renegotiation with suppliers and restructuring of the programme. Until such time as that work is completed, the Minister is not in a position to outline the cost or time impact.

6. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING MEASURES TO REDUCE POVERTY IN THE ISLAND:

Question

In response to questions on 20th January 2015, the Chief Minister referred to the need for "containing prices" as part of his targeting poverty; will he inform members whether this will include measures to achieve reductions in the short term (in the first quarter of this year) to the price of gas, heating oil, and electricity and will he further produce for members the evidence that he has for his statement (as part of his answers on 20th January 2015) that "rent control does not work"?

Answer

In containing prices in Jersey we have to accept that there are factors outside our control, such as global trends in commodity prices, which have recently led to a fall in oil and food prices. These global trends have already impacted on prices in Jersey, with the December 2014 RPI figures showing that petrol and heating oil prices have fallen year on year, and that food prices are lower on both a quarterly and annual basis.

It would be unrealistic to think the States can manage prices on a quarterly basis but we can help Islanders further by focusing on the matters that are under our control – the way we set fiscal policy and through competition policy.

We will continue to follow Fiscal Policy Panel advice by making sure that fiscal policy is counter cyclical and does not impact unintendedly on local prices. Competition policy is now the responsibility of the Chief Minister and every effort will be made to enhance policy to the benefit of consumers. Where possible we will aim to remove barriers to entry in key markets in Jersey and where monopolies naturally exist we will aim to regulate them effectively. We will also look to ensure that consumer representation makes the consumer's voice heard and work closely with the Channel Island Competition and Regulatory Authority to identify where they can help to improve competition. The Assistant Chief Minister has already started discussions on how they can build on their previous work to improve the way fuel markets in Jersey work.

Rent control does not work because it affects the incentives facing landlords and potential tenants and has knock-on effects on supply and demand. This can reduce the availability and quality of rental housing, cause distortions in the way housing is allocated, be difficult to administer and ultimately mean that the intended distributional goals are not achieved. The Minister for Housing will be reporting in more detail on this issue in February.

7. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REGARDING THE NUMBER OF LICENSED OR REGISTERED POSTS CREATED BY INWARD INVESTMENT:

Question

Following his response to a written question on 20th January 2015 (reference 8587) and subsequent oral questions, can the Minister account for the fact that 153 (17%) of the jobs created by inward investment were registered or licensed posts, a higher proportion than is the average across employment sectors?

Is the Minister yet in a position to provide figures for the tax paid by the 35 finance sector companies subject to the 10% rate referred to, and if not can he inform members when he will be able to do so, along with the sectoral income tax revenue generated by the 896 jobs created?

Will he also inform members what data he has for business and employment creation for Locate Jersey for the years 2012 -2014?

Answer

From the latest report on the Labour Market in June 2014; Registered posts accounted for 10% of total manpower (public + private) and licensed posts for 3%, giving a total of 13% for the two categories. For the private sector only, registered + licensed posts accounted for 14% of total manpower.

By its very nature inward investment often means that principals of companies and skilled experienced employees relocate to the Island – the mind and management' of the business. Within the period of the business license these companies recruit local staff and transfer their skills, knowledge and experience to the local market.

As stated in previous answers, my department is not privy to tax paid by individual businesses or persons. This is confidential information between the business and / or their employees and the Taxes Office. Inward investment activity, and the associated job creation, generates new tax revenue for Jersey. We will continue to support inward investment and will continue our relentless focus on the creation of jobs and employment.

For the period 2012 – 2014 (inclusive), 115 new licences were approved, of which 100 have, or are likely to, commence trading, creating 1052 potential job opportunities of which 90% were for entitled posts. As three year licences are generally granted by the Population Office to businesses, these job opportunities will be converted into jobs in the period 2012 – 2016. Of these new licences, 33% of the licenced businesses had not yet commenced by, or were approved after, June 2014 (the most recent complete information). Now that we have access to the manpower returns we will assess the employment impact of inward investment businesses and will publish on an annual basis.

I reiterate that I would be pleased to arrange for the Deputy to visit the Department so we can discuss with him the nature of our work and the benefits of inward investment to Jersey. Furthermore, I am aware of at least one inward investment business offering to meet with the Deputy to confirm their personal and business tax situation, the number of employees engaged and the benefits to Jersey of inward investment.

8. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR TREASURY AND RESOURCES REGARDING THE TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE APPRAISAL OF THE SITE OPTIONS FOR THE NEW HOSPITAL:

Question

Further to the response to a written question on 20th January 2015 (reference 8593) will the Minister inform members of the terms of reference under which Gleeds Management Service will appraise the four site options for the new hospital and, if not, why not?

Answer

NB: This question has been re-directed to the Minister of Treasury and Resources as the Contracting Authority to Gleeds Management Services.

The broad "terms of reference" for the Site Options Appraisal to be undertaken by Gleeds Management Services were set out by the Minister for Health and Social Services in his response to Written Question 1240/5(8593).

A separate Brief to vary the Agreement between the Minister for Treasury and Resources and Gleeds Management Services to undertake the Site Options Appraisal has been agreed with that Company and has been issued to the Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel and is appended to this answer.

9. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY REGARDING TESTS USED TO ASSESS THE LEVEL OF IMPAIRMENT SUFFERED BY APPLICANTS FOR MEDICAL COMPONENTS OF INCOME SUPPORT:

Question

Notwithstanding the satisfaction expressed in response to a written question on 20th January 2015 (8591) does the Minister accept that tests used to assess the level of impairment suffered by applicants for medical components of income support are similar (in 9 of 17 elements) to the Work Capability Assessment (WCA) administered by service company ATOS to determine eligibility for the UK Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)?

Given that ATOS has now abandoned its contract with the DWP to administer this test, due to extensive complaints from disability groups and others over the 40% failure rate on appeal of the assessments, does the Minister have confidence that a test designed to assess capability for work can be used to assess the very different and more complex levels of impairment?

Were the "experienced UK experts" in the design of and training in these assessments referred to by the Minister ATOS employees and were they were involved in the training of ATOS employees in what became a failed system?

Is the Minister aware of changes proposed for the UK tests following a new round of tendering for the WCA contract and, if so, are the lessons learned by the DWP appropriate for Jersey?

Answer

The impairment test used by Income Support is not comparable to the UK's Work Capability Assessment. Although both tests inevitably address the functional restrictions on different areas of the mind and body, the UK's process is entirely focussed on work capability whereas the Income Support assessment is designed to assess much broader needs for additional personal care. A comparison between the two tests is therefore not meaningful in the way that this question anticipates.

The detail of the contract between Atos and the UK's Department of Work and Pensions is not a matter on which I am able to comment. It is important to understand that Atos is a private contractor that does not develop its own tests, and the DWP's decision to outsource its assessment process does not have any relevance to the system used in Jersey.

I can state that my Department does not outsource this work to a private contractor. Although medical evidence from a range of external experts may be used as part of the assessment, the final decision on all evidence is made by a Determining officer employed by the Department. Very few decisions are challenged through the local appeal system and our statistics indicate that the majority of officers' decisions are upheld by the independent tribunal which handles such appeals and, as I have previously stated, I am fully confident in both our assessment process and the performance of the independent appeals system.

The experienced UK experts referred to in my answer to question 8591 were not Atos employees. Their previous roles involved training delivered as part of the Department of Work and Pensions. I am unable to comment on any previous arrangements between the DWP and any of its external contractors.

I am aware that the UK has made small changes to the Work Capability Assessment rules from January of this year. However, these changes concern the degree to which a person receiving the test is deemed capable for work. As the purpose of the Income Support impairment assessment is not to assess work capability, these changes are not relevant to Income Support.

10. DEPUTY G. P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING THE ACCEPTANCE OF AN ECONOMY WHERE ONLY A FEW DO SPECTACULARLY WELL':

Question

Has the Chief Minister considered the question posed by US President Barack Obama in his State of the Nation address as to how much longer we will "accept an economy where only a few of us do spectacularly well" and, if so, what is his response in relation to Jersey?

Does the Chief Minister accept the now widely held position, by such people as the Chief Executive of Unilever, Paul Polman, and the Managing Director of the IMF, Christine Lagarde, that the growth of inequality reduces economic growth and decreases social mobility to such an extent that action must be taken to reduce excessive executive pay and is he prepared to take steps to do so in Jersey?

Does the Chief Minister accept the conclusions of the report on which this is based on "inclusive prosperity" which advocates wage growth for low earners and support for effective trade unions if economic growth is to be achieved in the UK and US economies?

Answer

To support economic growth we need to promote equality of opportunity, focusing on improving education so we have the best possible local workforce for the future, and removing barriers to enterprise. As the President of the United States said, "expanding opportunity works".

As industrial societies have developed we have seen increasing social mobility, universal education, innovation and enterprise all supporting economic growth and enabling people to share in the available wealth.

In Jersey, a smaller proportion of people live in relative low income than in the United Kingdom, and than almost all the OECD countries, including Germany, Denmark and Sweden.

In addition, Jersey has increased its minimum wage each year throughout the recession, while many other jurisdictions have frozen theirs. Nearly half of the countries reviewed by the UK's Low Pay Commission in 2014 had not increased their minimum wage rates between 2012 and 2013. In countries that had increased their minimum wages, the increases were more modest than in previous years.

We are encouraging people on low incomes to remain in work by increasing the amount of income support they can retain in work, while strengthening sanctions. We continue to invest in the "back to work" programme.

Government measures to limit pay in the private sector are not needed, and will not help, especially in a small Island competing for business. Private sector businesses create jobs, and we should welcome people who create wealth and pay taxes, support incentives to do well, and value the contribution of Islanders from all walks of life.

The way to raising living standards is not to penalise people who are successful, but to increase productivity, earnings, and employment, in particular for those on low and middle incomes, while containing prices for consumers and businesses.

There is a role for trade unions and a range of bodies working in constructive partnership as part of this agenda of productivity, participation and raising living standards.

11. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR HOUSING REGARDING LIMITS ON RECHARGES APPLIED BY ANDIUM HOMES AND OTHER SOCIAL HOUSING TRUSTS:

Question

Will the Minister inform members whether there is a limit that can be charged by Andium Homes and other social housing trusts on recharges for cleaning, decoration and repair at the end of a tenancy and, if so, what this is and, if not, why not?

Will she inform members what guidelines are in place to determine what constitutes "fair wear and tear" for Andium Homes and other providers with respect to kitchen and bathroom fittings in addition to paintwork and decoration issues?

Answer

There is no limit to the amount affordable housing providers can recharge departing tenants for the costs of cleaning, decoration and repair at the end of a tenancy. Tenants have a responsibility to leave their property in a satisfactory condition in accordance with their tenancy agreement – fair wear and tear excepted.

Where tenants have caused damage or neglected the cleanliness or decoration of their property, the amount they will be required to pay will reflect the costs of work to improve the condition of their property for the next tenants. The costs will be deducted from either their deposit or as a separate charge where no deposit is held or where the deposit is not sufficient to meet the cost of bringing the property back to an acceptable condition in line with the tenancy agreement.

There are no guidelines in place to determine what constitutes "fair wear and tear". This is a matter of professional judgement as applies to all rental tenancies. However, affordable housing providers will adopt a fair and transparent approach at all times in determining how such matters are dealt with.

To support the return of deposit money and/or recharging tenants, all providers use condition reports on new tenancies under the Residential Tenancy (Jersey) Law 2011. This ensures there is an accurate record on the condition of a property at the beginning and termination of a tenancy, which can be referred back in the event of any concerns about which party is responsible for repairs and maintenance.

It should also be noted that any matters relating to damages for breach of a tenancy agreement may be dealt with by the Court. However, in future, providers who take deposits will be covered by the incoming tenancy deposit scheme, which will have a separate dispute resolution service to support the return of deposit money in cases where a landlord and tenant cannot reach agreement about the recovery of deposit money.

In addition, as part of a regulatory framework for affordable housing provision, the Minister will consider the rights and responsibilities of providers to address issues around the condition, repair and maintenance of properties. A regulator will, for example, be given the power to issue Code of Practices, which may include guidance on "fair wear and tear" to ensure a consistent approach across all providers.

4. Oral Questions

1. Deputy M. Tadier of St. Brelade of the Minister for Education, Sport and Culture regarding G.C.S.E. results:

What statistical information, if any, does the Minister have to support the statement on page 11 of the Council of Ministers' Strategic Priorities document that "the Island has been overtaken" in G.C.S.E. (General Certificate of Secondary Education) results by England?

Deputy R.G. Bryans of St. Helier (The Minister for Education, Sport and Culture):

There are many different ways to analyse data and statistics and G.C.S.E. results are a notorious example of this. Members may have heard or read or seen the difficulties that the U.K. (United Kingdom) has got into recently by changing some of their results. The answer to Deputy Tadier 's question depends on which measure you choose to look at. So, for instance, if we take - it is a little bit abstract and a little bit difficult but I can provide further information should Members want it - if we take the percentage of the G.C.S.E.s that are an A* to C grade, Jersey has been consistently above England over a decade. However, a more useful message is the percentage of students who got 5 or more passes at grade A* to C. This is what opens the door to employment or further study.

[09:45]

Jersey's performance in this has remained consistent for over a decade. Until 2009 we were ahead of England but results there have been improving and in 2010 we were overtaken for the first time. England scored 75.4 per cent compared to Jersey's 69.8 per cent. An even more important G.C.S.E. measure is for 5 A* to Cs including English and Maths. Jersey scored higher in this until 2011 when England edged ahead to 59.0 per cent compared to our 58.2 per cent. G.C.S.E. comparisons must come with a major health warning, particular this year and next year. It is an increasingly complicated landscape and there has been a huge upheaval in G.C.S.E.s, not just the

contents of the qualifications but also the way figures are calculated. The one certainty is that there is room to improve Jersey's G.C.S.E. results and that is what myself, the department and the director have been working on. We want to return to a position where we are above the U.K. however you look at it.

The Bailiff :

Minister, answers must be brief, the usual rule is one minute and 30 seconds. Deputy R.G. Bryans:

Thank you, Sir, I will get to the point. Results at the moment are being finalised by the Education Statistics Team; they came out Friday in the U.K. and we are still counting. They will be published next month in line with the timetable for our new publications schedule, which mirrors what happens with results of information in the U.K.

1. Deputy M. Tadier :

It is clear that obviously the statistics can be interpreted in different ways, depending which test one uses but it is clearly the statement of the Minister's which says that the Island has been overtaken, not anyone else, so presumably that is the test that they have taken. I suppose the immediate question is what steps is the Minister and the department taking specifically when it comes to English and Maths skills to make sure that those subject areas are actually enhanced and students are performing to the best of their capabilities in those 2 areas in particular?

Deputy R.G. Bryans:

We have embarked on .. I think the 4 principles have been outlined by the director but I will just repeat those. One is that we are looking at standards, the other is looking at curriculum, then autonomy and finally family. The top 3 are the most important ones and, in fact, the top 2 are the ones that directly relate to the G.C.S.E. results. In that we have been working on what they call task and finish groups' that will be finished in mid-February. That is working with heads and teachers on strategic plans to improve the results that we have.

2. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier :

As part of his methods to improve standards, does the Minister accept that the Coalition Government's emphasis currently on testing, for example testing for phonics at 6 and testing the 12 times table at 11, does not in and of itself improve educational standards, it merely puts people through a hoop?

Deputy R.G. Bryans:

I think in principle I do agree with that. I think I would rather have students in schools learning than become examination fodder.

3. Deputy J.A. Hilton of St. Helier :

Is there any evidence to suggest that children who come from families where English is the second language are particularly disadvantaged when it comes to G.C.S.E. English O level results?

Deputy R.G. Bryans:

No, I am not aware of anything that does suggest that. 4.1.4. Deputy J.A. Hilton:

The Minister said that he was not aware of that, but has he spoken to the head teachers of the primary and secondary schools to try and establish any evidence of that?

Deputy R.G. Bryans:

I have been visiting all primary schools, over the last month or so I visited 25, I think, educational establishments and I have not had discussions on that particular aspect. I am aware of the numbers of E.A.L. (English as an additional language) students but I can come back to the Deputy should she require any further information.

5. Deputy J.A. Hilton

The Minister just admitted that he had not asked that particular question, so I would ask that he does go back and speak to the headteachers specifically about English as a second language.

Deputy R.G. Bryans: Specifically to do with? Deputy J.A. Hilton:

Whether children who come from families where English is a second language are particularly disadvantaged when it comes to G.C.S.E. results.

Deputy R.G. Bryans:

It is my belief they are not in the discussions I have had but I can certainly further that discussion.

6. Deputy J.A. Martin of St. Helier :

In the very good answer the Minister gave to the first part of the question, he said since 2009 A* to C have passed above England in G.S.C.E. but since 2011 A* to C in English and Maths has fallen. Why is it only now in 2015 we are being told this? Will the Minister undertake to stop spinning these results and give us them as they are so we can deal with them?

Deputy R.G. Bryans:

I do not believe that we have been spinning the results. We have been quite honest; we publish all the statistical results. In fact one of the commitments that we have made in this administration is to make sure that the parents, the students and members of the public are fully aware of the commitment both by our department and by the results themselves. So within the next week, as we look through the results that have been received by this department, we will see full statistics published.

7. Deputy G.P. Southern :

Is the Minister aware that the figures shown on his website, the Education Department website, show that in 2013 figures and 2014 figures Jersey is back on top and that we are 5 per cent ahead of England?

Deputy R.G. Bryans:

No, I am not aware of that. I will have a look and get back to the Deputy , thank you.

8. Deputy M. Tadier :

I hope that when students do finally leave school their English is of a sufficient standard to understand some of the jargon that we heard from the Minister. When I asked the question about what we could specifically to raise standards in English and Maths, he talked about autonomy and about raising standards. One of the ways we raise standards is by raising standards, it answers itself. I would like specifically to know whether the Minister agrees, especially when it comes to maths tuition, whether the way to improve maths output - whether it be at primary or secondary school - ultimately is to employ primary school teachers who are specifically expert in maths rather than necessarily all-rounders. That is one way that can effectively be used, which will of course have a resource implication to raise the standard ultimately for school leavers.

Deputy R.G. Bryans:

No, I do not agree that we look for teachers who are specifically tutored in maths. Our view from an education situation is that we take a holistic view on the well-being of the child, both educationally and in their background with regard to family. So I think that the teachers we have currently are doing a remarkable job and I will not be opining myself that maths teachers are the way to go.

9. Deputy M. Tadier :

Would that rule of thumb apply to secondary schools equally? Would we expect to see maths teachers at a secondary school level who are not proficient necessarily or expert in maths?

Deputy R.G. Bryans:

There is consideration given in that particular area for because of the need for them to move into an examination phase, but as I say on a holistic view we would not do that.

2. Deputy G.P. Southern of the Minister for Social Security regarding sanctions imposed on job seekers leaving a job without sufficient reason:

Will the Minister inform members of the number of sanctions imposed on job seekers for leaving a job without sufficient reason or failing a task by quarter since the adoption of P.101/2013 (Income Support (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Jersey) Regulations 2013) and detail the measures, if any, which have been put in place to assess the impact of these sanctions on the behaviour or well-being of those sanctioned?

Deputy S.J. Pinel of St. Clement (The Minister for Social Security):

The Regulations made in P.101/2013 came into force in October 2013. During a period of bedding-down at the end of 2013, 358 sanctions were applied, however the figure for the first quarter of 2014 onwards most accurately show the new sanctions coming into effect. The following numbers of sanctions have been applied to people in receipt of income support. In the first quarter 2014, 463 sanctions were applied; in the second quarter, 404 sanctions were applied; in the third quarter, 373; and in the fourth quarter, 299 sanctions were applied. Financial sanctions are a last resort and are not required for the great majority of job seekers. However, the enhanced sanctions were brought in as a response to very clear evidence that the previous regime did not do enough to change the behaviour of a minority of job seekers. It is not right that the people have the option of choosing not to seek work. For this commonsense reason, the new sanctions were strongly endorsed by this Assembly. Our subsequent experience reflects the success of this policy; the figures show that the number of sanctions are falling and that for most people the receipt of a written warning is enough for them to change their behaviour. I am very pleased to report this reducing number of sanctions as the new system is settled-in. Job seekers are now more aware of their responsibilities and are taking up the opportunities and training offered to them through the Back to Work teams. This has been reflected in the actively seeking work total at the end of 2014, which stood at 1,440, the lowest figure since September 2011. We have had a particular success in this last year with our foundation's programme which is designed to support job seekers with barriers to employment and further from the labour market. Many clients benefiting from this programme have in the past been sanctioned because they failed to demonstrate sufficient commitment to job seeking. But we have given them an opportunity to prove themselves and the results show that motivation for work increases. Work is always undertaken to identify vulnerable individuals long before a financial sanction comes into play and whenever a financial sanction may affect children or other members of the household. It is however worth noting that most job seekers who reach the higher stages of the sanction progress are young, single people with no family responsibilities. The majority of these are living at home with their parents.

1. Deputy G.P. Southern :

It does strike me that with 1,400 job seekers and 460 sanctions at one stage that this was an inappropriately harsh measure designed to focus on the minority and not the majority. Does the Minister believe that focusing and making up rules for the minority is not a sound principle on which to base her policies?

Deputy S.J. Pinel:

The job seeker, if he or she does not comply with the job seeking requirements, will have a written warning and if this is breached by the potential job seeker not complying with the written warning, i.e. not attending a job interview or a work experience or a training session, then a breach of this warning is what is the next sanction. That will require the removal of the adult component of income support for 2 weeks. If this continues in breach of the job seeking compliance then another sanction will be applied. But during all this time an adviser will be with the job seeker and the warning will be made very clear that this will happen if they continue to disregard the obligations that they have as job seekers.

2. Deputy J.A. Martin:

In the reply the Minister said vulnerable families with children are always spoken to before financial warnings. Can the Minister tell us, out of all these numbers, and she did say the majority are young people still at home, the number that have gone on to the second sanction, gone beyond the adult component and had the whole household income taken away, including rent. Could she tell us that figure and would she agree that it is not in the best interests of anyone to leave children without their rent paid or any food?

Deputy S.J. Pinel:

Any person who continues to ignore warnings and reaches a third breach of a written warning will lose all entitlement to benefits for 6 weeks. Since the sanctions were brought in, 106 have reached this stage of the sanction process. But, as I have said before, it does not apply to somebody who is sick, vulnerable or with disabilities, and it is very much the majority of people who are young, single and at home. It appears that the home situation picks up the loss of the adult component, which does not encourage the young person to keep job seeking.

3. Deputy J.A. Martin:

The Minister said "it appears". The figure of 106 to have that total household income taken away is quite worrying. Could she break that down later for the Assembly and let us know how many of these are families with children and have 6 weeks no money and no rent paid?

[10:00]

Deputy S.J. Pinel:

Yes, of course I can fund the Deputy with some more figures. There is always the ability to appeal and in the whole year and quarter of this being in effect, there have been 7 appeals to the tribunal and all of these appeals have been from only 2 people.

4. Deputy M. Tadier :

It seems to me symptomatic of this Tory Government that they like to impose sanctions and facilitate unfair dismissal before they have even got three-quarters of the remainder of the discrimination law passed. This is where the priorities of this government lie when it comes to work. Is the Minister for Social Security, as part of this government, proud of the mental duress the increased poverty and the social instability that these sanctions being applied across the board punitively, often in my experience it is in cases of unfair dismissal, are being compounded by the action of her department?

Deputy S.J. Pinel:

No, I do not think the sanctions are punitive. A job seeker is constantly, constantly, advised, helped, encouraged and motivated to look for work. It is quite clear from all evidence that everybody is happier when in work. If a job seeker consistently refuses to comply with the terms that have been made very, very clear to them, is it also right that taxpayers should subsidise these people who are not complying with quite minor requirements to job-seek?

5. Deputy M. Tadier :

I do not see how any sense can be gained from question time when we are given answers saying sanctions are not punitive. I was under the understanding that sanctions were deliberately designed to be punitive to put people off, the so-called work-shy we are told, who do not like to work from otherwise claiming benefit when they could be working. So I think this line of communication for this question is certainly closed, as far as I am concerned, until we get more sensible answers.

The Bailiff :

Was there a question there, Deputy ? Deputy M. Tadier :

No, Sir. I mean if there is a question The Bailiff :

It is question time.

Deputy M. Tadier :

The question would be to ask the Minister in future to give sensible answers and courteous answers, which do not undermine the basic intelligence of other Members.

6. Deputy G.P. Southern :

Will the Minister address the second part of the question which asks what measures have been put in place, if any, to assess the impact of these sanctions on the behaviour or well-being of those sanctions? In the U.K., where sanctions are used, it is known that 20 per cent of people sanctioned leave schemes altogether and disappear from the D.W.P. (Department for Work and Pensions) records. There are investigations going on into a number of suicides where people have been sanctioned, and that has caused them terrific distress and hardship. What research has she done into the impact of these sanctions on particular individuals?

Deputy S.J. Pinel:

The Deputy keeps trying to refer the Jersey situation to the U.K. situation. The 2 situations are not comparable. Having said before that this law has only been in implementation for just over a year and out of that we have had only 7 appeals from 2 different people, I do not think we are neglecting our duty in looking after these people with sanctions. They have put themselves in this position against the advice of their advisers and mentors. There has to be a carrot and stick situation in any occurrence like this and I do not think in any occasion that a member of the public who cannot job seek through illness or disability is asked to do so.

7. Deputy G.P. Southern :

Has any effort been made to assess the impact - please answer the question - on these particular individuals, the impact of these sanctions, and if not will the Minister undertake to do so in the near future, because these are significant measures?

Deputy S.J. Pinel:

Of course all job seekers are registered with the Back to Work team and of course they know all of them, unlike the U.K. situation where it could be in different councils over different counties, different training areas. We know all our job seekers and they are monitored the whole time. If the Deputy wishes me to give him a list of job seekers who have gone through the full sanction treatment I am not able to do so. It is individual cases.

Deputy G.P. Southern :

So the Minister has not committed herself to making any effort research the impact of these sanctions.

The Bailiff :

I think her answer was that they know in the department those who are receiving the sanctions but it is a matter for Members.

Deputy J.A. Martin:

Sorry, the Minister just said to the other Deputy she could not supply because they are individuals. Earlier she said she could supply numbers to me that were sanctioned fully with children. That is fine, thank you.

The Bailiff :

Although I cannot see him I understand the Minister for Treasury and Resources may be somewhere near. [Aside] I excused him, you are quite right, Senator. Thank you very much indeed. I did excuse him. So we will go back to question one and Deputy Mézec has a question to ask of the Minister for Treasury and Resources. I can see him.

3. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the J.T./Gigabit dispute:

I am delighted the Minister has made it here safely and in one piece. What action, if any, has the Minister, as the shareholder representative of J.T. (Jersey Telecom), taken to bring about a solution to the Gigabit dispute and what further measures does he have under consideration to deliver progress?

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

May I take this opportunity to apologise for my late arrival? I gave an offering to my wife this morning to help with taking the children to school and it was to my detriment that the traffic was particularly bad in the country lanes in the north of the Island. With regard to the question and my actions that I have taken, it is a matter of holding the board of J.T. to account and I maintain that the approach as Minister for Treasury and Resources acting as shareholder representative on behalf of the States, and I will continue to do that. I also took the opportunity to attend the meeting arranged by Deputy Mézec with some of the individuals that are in dispute with Gigabit Field Force and gained a better understanding of their perspective and issues. I then reiterated to J.T. the importance of it  living up to both the wording and the spirit of the obligation set out in the memorandum of understanding. I have been assured by J.T. that this will be the case. I have also written to the President of Global Regions for CH2M Hill, who is based in the United States, to express my concerns over this particular issue. As a result he has replied that he will be visiting Jersey and we will be holding a meeting within the next month or so, and I will update Members in due course of the result of that.

1. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :

It was just on this weekend that I happened to run into some more workers at J.T. to find out that since these meetings and since these letters have been sent more and more of them are being suspended pretty much every week. This situation is getting much worse before it gets better. What powers does he have to intervene and step in and say something has got to be done, even if it is simply an interim solution to make sure these people are getting paid and can put food on the table, because for them what is happening is serious stuff, and they need action right away, and not to wait for some letter to come from some company somewhere else in the world that does not see these people on a daily basis and can see the hardship that is being caused to them.

Senator A.J.H. Maclean:

The point that Deputy Mézec is raising is not according with what I have been told this very day. I asked for an update this morning on my way in; I had plenty of time while I was waiting in the traffic. I was assured that indeed there are no further cases of suspensions above and beyond that that had already been specified. There are 2 cases, one that is going through J.A.C.S. (Jersey Advisory Conciliation Service) at the moment, and there is another one that is going through an internal review process. Outside of that, the position has not changed since I last updated Members in the States. I can also say that in terms of connections, the Field Force is continuing to work and indeed last seek I am assured that some 70 connections were made and the success rate importantly of those connections was at the highest level it has been since the programme started. So there is progress. I do not dispute the fact that there are some issues here, and that is the reason that the Global Regions Director, the President of CH2M Hill, is going to visit Jersey and we are going to have a meeting to discuss how better this situation can be handled as we move forward.