Government of Jersey

Information about the publication of Ministerial Decisions

A formal published “Ministerial Decision” is required as a record of the decision of a Minister (or an Assistant Minister where they have delegated authority) as they exercise their responsibilities and powers.

Ministers are elected by the States Assembly and have legal responsibilities and powers as “corporation sole” under the States of Jersey Law 2005 by virtue of their office and in their areas of responsibility, including entering into agreements, and under any legislation conferring on them powers.

An accurate record of “Ministerial Decisions” is vital to effective governance, including:

demonstrating that good governance, and clear lines of accountability and authority, are in place around decisions-making – including the reasons and basis on which a decision is made, and the action required to implement a decision
providing a record of decisions and actions that will be available for examination by States Members, and Panels and Committees of the States Assembly; the public, organisations, and the media; and as a historical record and point of reference for the conduct of public affairs

Ministers are individually accountable to the States Assembly, including for the actions of the departments and agencies which discharge their responsibilities.

The Freedom of Information Law (Jersey) Law 2011 is used as a guide when determining what information is be published. While there is a presumption toward publication to support of transparency and accountability, detailed information may not be published if, for example, it would constitute a breach of data protection, or disclosure would prejudice commercial interest.

A decision made (16/03/2007) regarding: Magic Cottage, Eversley, La Rue de la Genestiere, St. Martin - Unauthorised erection of fence at rear of property.

Subject:	Magic Cottage, Eversley, La Rue de la Genestiere, St. Martin Unauthorised erection of fence at rear of property
Decision Reference:	MD-PE-2007-0215	Exempt clause(s):		n/a
Type of Report (oral or written):	Oral	Person Giving Report (if oral):		Andy Townsend
Telephone or e-mail Meeting?	n/a	Report File ref:		RP/2004/0962
Written Report Title:	Unauthorised fence at rear of property	Written report – Author:		N/A
Decision(s) The Minister instructed the case officer to write to the property owner advising that the unauthorized fence should be removed within 30 days of the date on which the letter was sent. The Minister did not authorize the serving of an Enforcement Notice, in accordance with Article 40 of the Planning and Building (Jersey) Law 2002.
Reason(s) for decision: The fence was not considered appropriate, but some enclosure may be acceptable.
Action required: Notify applicants and their advocate.
Signature: (Minister)			Date of Decision: 16.03.07