Allocation of Reserve Funding in 2023

27 July 2023

The Minister for Treasury and Resources, Deputy Ian Gorst, has announced the allocation of £6.9 million of reserve funding for the year 2023.

This allocation of funding, held centrally in the Government Plan 2023, helps to address some emerging priorities.

Highlights of the allocation include:

1: Infrastructure and Environment (I&E) – Liquid Waste Key Infrastructure: £1,963,100.

In support of the Council of Ministers’ relentless focus on housing, funding has been made available in 2023 to ensure the rapid progression of key liquid waste projects to ensure that the network has sufficient capacity to support the delivery of new homes. This funding will allow initial feasibility and preparatory work to enable the department to support the Council of Ministers in delivering the Bridging Island Plan. It will also address existing network issues which will reduce the number of emergency call outs, improve operational efficiency, and prevent pollution.

2: Health and Community Service (HCS) – Waiting List Recovery Initiatives: Up to £2,797,600.

In the Government Plan 2023-26, a central reserve of £5 million has been dedicated to tackling hospital waiting lists. With growing waiting times of more than 180 days across various healthcare pathways, this additional funding will be strategically used to reduce these lists, ensuring timely and efficient access to medical services for Jersey's residents.

There is also further provision to support the Financial Recovery Program in Health and Community Services. This will support the department in addressing significant financial challenges to deliver a balanced budget.

Treasury Minister, Deputy Ian Gorst said: "The General Reserve exists as a prudent measure to allow Government to react to unforeseen challenges and emerging priorities. After careful consideration, it is clear that funding is urgently needed to allow the investment in our drainage network – unlocking housing development.

“We must maintain our ongoing focus on strong and prudent financial management by departments to manage expenditure within their cash limits. The scale of challenges faced by the Health department mean that additional resource is needed to make sure there is adequate financial grip and control to deliver value for taxpayers.”