Ministerial Decision
Tourism (Jersey) Law 1948
Withdrawal Of Exemption Granted To The Jersey Blind Society, Westlea Centre, To Precluded Registration Under The Tourism (Jersey) Law 1948
Issue and Recommendation
Following confirmation from Planning & Environment and Housing to the Jersey Blind Society it was agreed that the premises known as Westlea Centre, St Martin, could begin to operate as a Tourism establishment. Although the Westlea Centre could trade un-registered, due to its charitable status, it would not benefit from the marketing opportunities which is enjoyed by registered establishments. To withdraw the exemption granted upon the Jersey Blind Society would make it necessary for the Westlea Centre to register under the Tourism Law and therefore benefit from additional marketing opportunities.
To attain registration under the Tourism Law an exemption previously placed upon The Jersey Blind Society, Westlea Centre, would have to be removed. This exemption, outlined in article 7(1)a of the Tourism Law, grants any establishment carried on by an organisation not conducted for profit from the provisions of Article 5a, duty to register,
To remove this exemption the Minister has the power under Article 7(2) of the Tourism Law to vary such conditions or withdraw the exemption.
It is recommended that the Minister withdraws the previously granted exemption making it necessary for the Jersey Blind Society, Westlea Centre to register under the Tourism (Jersey) Law 1948.
It is the intention of the Jersey Blind Society, Westlea Centre, to apply to be registered under the Tourism Law providing the exemption is lifted.
Background
Westlea is the permanent base of the Jersey Blind Society. Situated in the heart of the countryside, it offers both residential accommodation and day care for anyone affected by impaired sight.
The Jersey Blind Society is Jersey's oldest established charity. It was first set up in 1886 and ever since it has worked tirelessly in the Island to give practical and financial help to all those with failing sight.
Recommendation
It is recommended that the Minister withdraws the previously granted exemption making it necessary for the Jersey Blind Society, Westlea Centre to register under the Tourism (Jersey) Law 1948.
Action
On approval of the withdrawal of the exemption the Hospitality and Leisure Manager will notify the Jersey Blind Society, Westlea Centre and advise that an application for registration under the Tourism Law will now be required.
Hospitality and Leisure Manager
15 June 2010